Do You Get Paid for Reading Audiobooks? How to Start Earning Now

Have you ever listened to an audiobook and wondered how the narrator got that job and what they get paid? Audiobook reading is surely a job that some people do full-time. Companies producing audiobooks hire professional voice actors known as audiobook narrators to bring stories to life with their voices. In this guide, we’ll explore whether you can get paid to read audiobooks and what the job actually entails.

Do You Get Paid to Read Audiobooks?

The short answer is yes, audiobook narrators do get paid for their work. Audiobook production is a multi-million-dollar industry, so companies need to hire proficient and talented voice artists to record all the audiobook titles being produced. While getting work as a professional narrator does require some experience and skill development, it is definitely a career path that allows you to earn an income from reading books aloud.

How Much Do Audiobook Narrators Get Paid?

The payment structure and rates for audiobook narration can vary depending on the publisher, production company, and the specific narration contract. However, here are some general guidelines for what narrators typically earn:

Per Finished Hour (PFH)

This is the standard measurement used in the industry. Most narrators are paid based on the number of finished hours (one credit is equal to one hour of playback time) they record. Rates usually range from $50-$500 PFH depending on experience level and demand.

Advance Payments

For popular and prolific narrators, some contract include advance payment against future royalties. Advances can range between $2000- $25000.

Royalties

In addition to their session fee, narrators earn royalties on audiobooks sold. Royalty rates are usually 5-15% of the audiobook’s list retail price.

Non-Union vs. Union Rates

The charges are generally higher if the narrator is a member of the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) union.

Experience Level

Just starting out, rates may be $50-150 PFH. Mid-career narrators earn $150-300 PFH. Very experienced pros command $300-500 + PFH.

Requirements to Be an Audiobook Narrator

To get hired for professional audiobook narration work, here are some typical prerequisites production companies look for:

• Excellent reading skills and a natural “storytelling” voice – Audiobooks require clarity, expression, and proper pacing to keep listeners engaged. Voice auditions are critical.
• Acting experience preferred – Understanding dynamics, character voices, and accents are important skills narrators should develop. Formal training is a plus, but not necessary.
• Home recording studio – Narrators need proper equipment like a USB microphone, soundproofing, and editing software to produce broadcast-quality recordings independently.
• Practice with audition materials – Submitting well-polished sample narrations shows skill and professionalism.
• Schedule availability – Committing to multi-week recording sessions when commissioned. Flexibility is needed.
• Union membership is not required but recommended. Joining SAG-AFTRA offers access to more work with larger publishers/producers.

While an ideal candidate has years of experience under their belt, motivated beginners can break in if they focus on skill development through local theater, Toastmasters, coaching, and non-union work to build a resume. Persistence and business savvy also help.

What Does the Job of an Audiobook Narrator Entail?

Once booked for a narration project, here’s an overview of what an audiobook narrator’s job responsibilities include:

• Receive the manuscript or book files and do a preliminary read-through for context.
• Marking up scripts with pronunciation guides, character voices, music cues, etc., before the recording session.
• Recording all narration and audio elements like introductions and transitions in a professional home studio setup.
• Editing takes, adding transitions/effects, and compiling into master files per publisher specs.
• Proof listening to final files for quality control before delivery.
• Participating in periodic check-in calls with producers for guidance or revisions.
• Potentially doing additional commercial VO work if requested by production companies.
• Tracking sales performance and collecting royalty statements from distributors.
• Networking for more work by attending industry conventions and staying updated on trends.

Can Anyone Get Into Audiobook Narration as a Career?

While audiobook narration has grown into a lucrative career path for some, breaking into the industry professionally does require focused effort on skill and portfolio development over time. Here are a few tips for those considering making the transition:

• Start small with public domain or indie titles to build a narration reel outside of union work.
• Take acting or vocal coaching lessons to sharpen your vocal talents and Get feedback on audition pieces.
• Consider launching a small home studio on a budget to start fielding lower-paying work.
• Network in audiobook Facebook groups to connect with producers seeking new talent.
• Volunteer to narrate for non-profits, libraries, or authors’ personal audiobook projects.
• Consider enrolling in an online or community college narration certificate program.
• Apply for SAG-AFTRA membership once experience warrants it for more lucrative opportunities.

With a dedication to honing your craft and business savvy to market yourself, those motivated to pursue audiobook narration as a full-time living or supplemental freelance income can succeed. Just be prepared for an initial investment of both time and money till your career lifts off.

Is There a Growing Demand for Audiobook Narrators?

The audiobook market has experienced unprecedented growth and expansion over the past decade, and there are no signs of slowing down. According to the Audio Publishers Association, audiobook sales have reached all-time highs annually, and listenership continues increasing exponentially as more people enjoy audiobooks for commuting, working out, and leisure.

As more titles are being produced each year across all genres to keep up with rising demand, the need for talented narrators who can bring those stories to life is also increasing. In fact, many in the industry report that finding qualified narrators is currently one of the biggest challenges hindering even faster production growth.

This positive industry trend bodes well for hopeful narrators looking to enter the field in the coming years. As more publishing houses, production companies, and independent authors embrace audiobooks as a lucrative format, job opportunities for reading audiobook actors should remain robust. The ability to work remotely from home studios also opens audiobook narration to a wider talent pool across various regions.

Additionally, downloadable audiobooks are now being enjoyed on more devices beyond just MP3 players and phones. Audiobooks are increasingly being integrated into eReaders, smart speakers, and virtual assistants as listening options. This continued expansion into new audio entertainment platforms is anticipated to drive even higher revenue growth over the next 5-10 years.

For creative and vocally talented individuals looking for a career where they can apply their performing arts skills from home, becoming a professional audiobook narrator offers an exciting and promising full-time or supplemental freelance opportunity. With focused preparation and perseverance, passionate voices can break into the booming industry and thrive for years to come.

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