Do you love to read? Do people often tell you how unique your voice is or how well you can tell a story? If so, you might be able to make some money online as an audiobook reader! That’s right—there are companies that will pay you to read books aloud and record them for others to listen to.
In this article, I’ll delve into the ins and outs of audiobook reading and list 7 companies through which you can get paid to read audiobooks from home. With a little practice, you can start making a substantial amount of money online by narrating other people’s books!
What is audiobook narration?
Audiobook narration is an exciting job opportunity to make money online by lending your voice to read other people’s books. Since audiobooks are becoming increasingly popular as an alternative to physical books, there is a rising demand for professional voice-over artists.
Audiobooks are becoming more popular than hard copies for their convenience: Firstly, they can be accessed anywhere and anytime, so you don’t have to worry about lugging around a heavy book. Secondly, audiobooks are great for multitasking; if you’re walking the dog or cooking dinner, you can still “read” the book at the same time. Finally, books in audio format are often cheaper than physical books, making them a more budget-friendly option for those who love to read.
What do you need to get started as an audiobook reader?
To get started as an audiobook narrator, all you need is a quiet place to record and a good-quality microphone. There are many companies that hire audiobook narrators, and most of them will allow you to work from home.
Furthermore, the ideal candidate should be able to recite scripts naturally with the appropriate pitch and tone of voice to convey emotion. Narrators do more than just recite the words on a page; they breathe life into them, adding depth to each word and soul to every character. They create an intimate bond with their audience, transporting each and every one of them into the mesmerizing world of the book they are reading.
Also, being able to accurately follow directions from clients is essential. All in all, getting started as an audiobook narrator requires a few resources and skills, as well as the appropriate attitude for long-term success.
How much can you expect to earn as an audiobook narrator?
As an audiobook narrator, you can make a decent living by leveraging your acting skills and vocal talents. Depending on the length of the book, genre, and other factors, narrators typically earn anywhere from $100 to $300 per finished hour.
With enough hard work and dedication, experienced audiobook narrators can comfortably command rates of up to $5000 per finished hour.
Tips for getting hired as an audiobook reader
If you’re interested in getting hired as an audiobook reader, there are some tips you can follow to make yourself stand out from other applicants.
- – Familiarize yourself with the style and tone of the genre in which you will be narrating; every kind of book has its own unique conventions and tropes.
- – Practice a range of vocal styles, inflections, and accents that can make your narration more engaging for listeners.
- – Do your best to deliver excellent quality recordings in a timely manner; employers are looking for accuracy and reliability.
- – Research industry contacts who may be able to recommend you for particular projects or offer advice on how to get started.
If you follow these simple tips, you’ll have a better chance of getting well-paying jobs narrating audiobooks.
7 companies offering audiobook reading jobs
If you want to get paid for reading audiobooks, here are 7 companies hiring now:
1. ACX
This service by Amazon is one of the largest platforms for authors, narrators, agents, publishers, and rights holders to connect with each other and create audiobooks for sale on Audible.com, Amazon.com, and iTunes.
To get started as a narrator on ACX, you need to create a profile and audition for available gigs.
Choose any book to audition for from the endless selection, and record a few minutes of your chosen manuscript. Then upload your sample for assessment – it’s that simple. Note that you can audition for more than one book, and the more samples you upload, the better your chances of being noticed by the authors and landing a job.
When it comes to payment, you can select between either a flat rate (typically ranging from $10 to $100 per finished hour for beginners and more than $100 for experienced narrators) or obtaining 50% in royalties from copies the author sells on the aforementioned platforms.
2. Findaway Voices
Findaway is a marketplace that connects narrators with authors.
Getting started on this platform is simple and easy; all you need to do is register for a free account, add your profile information, submit some samples of your work, and then sit back while authors come to you with job opportunities.
To gain a competitive advantage, make sure that your profile is fully furnished with things like languages and accents performed, preferred genres, and your rates.
3. Brilliance Audio
Brilliance Audio, a division of Brilliance Publishing, is another well-known audiobook publisher that works with a wide range of authors, and is looking for audiobook narrators.
To apply as an audiobook reader for this company, you need to send an email to auditions@brilliancepublishing.com for more information.
4. Voices
Voices.com is another freelance marketplace that not only connects audiobook readers with authors, but also offers other voice-over opportunities like radio and TV commercials. This company claims to have over 5,000 jobs posted every month and is open to both beginner and experienced voice-over artists.
To get started with this company, you need to make an interesting profile and upload some samples to show potential clients what you can do.
This company also allows you to set your own rates.
5. Fiverr
Fiverr is undoubtedly one of the biggest freelance marketplaces in the world, connecting businesses and individuals from all over the world for all kinds of digital freelance services. Fiverr is simple and efficient, which makes it everyone’s number-one go-to option when looking for skilled freelancers. If you provide any kind of freelance service (thinking audiobook reading? ), Fiverr is the place to be found.
As with other freelance marketplaces, it’s important to set up an impressive profile and upload your best work samples to get potential clients’ attention.
With Fiverr, you are completely at liberty to name your own prices. But if you are just starting out, you might want to start low until you have enough reviews and experience.
6. Spoken Realms
Spoken Realms is a podcast and audiobook publishing house that only hires highly experienced, professional voice-over artists, which they call storytellers.
In order to apply to this company, you have to fill out an application form on their website, which mainly asks for your qualifications.
The website does not provide extensive details concerning payment terms; however, they do specify that you can either opt for a flat rate or a royalty share or both.
7. The Voice Realm
Last but not least on our list is The Voice Realm, a highly acclaimed voice-over website offering a variety of jobs, including audiobook reading, radio and TV commercials, and character and cartoon voice-overs.
This company is always looking for the most talented people, and they hire people based on their experience, the quality of their voice, and their ability to follow directions.
While there’s no precise indication of how much payment one can expect to receive, some job postings show that remuneration can range up to $4500 per task! If you have what it takes, this could be your chance at a very financially rewarding career path.
To apply, submit your completed online application form and attach a voice-only demo.
FINAL THOUGHTS ON GETTING PAID FOR READING AUDIOBOOKS
Audiobook reading is a great way to make money online. You can work from home, set your own hours, and earn quite a lucrative income. This article lists my seven best legit companies to find audiobook narration jobs but it’s important to do your own further research to find out which company suits you best.
So, if you’re looking to get paid to read audiobooks, whether as a beginner or professional, don’t hesitate. Take action now by trying some of these companies.
Good luck and happy reading!🍀✨
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