5 tips when hiring an audiobook narrator.
As a new author or someone looking to turn your novel into an audiobook, hiring an audiobook narrator can be a bit scary. You've poured your heart and soul into your book and you want it to be perfect. But how do you find the right person who can bring your characters to life and make your story captivating?
Figure out your budget.
Let's face it, hiring a narrator can be expensive but don't let that discourage you. You need to figure out what you can afford before you start your search. The rates of narrators can vary greatly depending on their experience, the length and complexity of your book, and other factors. Make sure you set a budget that's reasonable and will get you the quality of narration that your book deserves.
Listen to samples.
This is the fun part! Most narrators will have samples of their work available on their website or on Audible. Take some time to listen to a few samples and see how the narrator sounds. Does their voice fit your book's tone? Do they have a good range of character voices? Does their pace work for your story?
Look for experience.
Experience is important when it comes to narrators. You want someone who knows what they're doing and can bring your book to life. Look for narrators who have experience in voiceover work, audiobook narration, or acting. Check their credentials and see if they've narrated books in your genre before. And don't be afraid to ask for references!
Consider the recording quality.
The quality of the recording is just as important as the narrator's voice. A poorly recorded audiobook can ruin the listening experience for your audience. Make sure your narrator has access to a high-quality recording studio or equipment and knows how to use it properly.
Collaborate with your narrator.
You've found your perfect match! Now it's time to work together. Make sure your narrator understands the tone and style of your book. Provide them with character descriptions, accents, and pronunciations to help them bring your characters to life. Be open to feedback and work together to create the best audiobook possible.
Hiring an audiobook narrator can be a nerve-wracking experience, but it's also an exciting one. You're about to see your book come to life in a whole new way! Take your time, do your research, and find the narrator who can make your book shine.
You can find my Audio Samples here.
