Should I Narrate My Audiobook or Hire a Narrator?

Should I Narrate My Audiobook or Hire a Professional Narrator?

This is one of the most common questions I get asked, and the answer depends on the nature of your book and your goals as an author.

For nonfiction authors, especially business professionals or consultants, narrating your audiobook can be a powerful tool for building trust with potential clients.

When listeners hear your voice, it adds a personal touch, allowing them to connect with you on a deeper level. It also positions you as an expert in your field, giving clients a preview of what it’s like to work with you, much like a personalized sales call. This connection often helps move them further along the sales funnel, making them more likely to hire you for consulting, speaking engagements, or other services.

However, narrating an audiobook is a time commitment and requires a certain level of comfort and skill behind the microphone. If you can narrate at a "minimum viable" level—where your voice sounds natural and engaging, much like it would on a client call—it can be a valuable asset. Keep in mind, the narration doesn't have to be flawless, but it does need to effectively convey your message.

This is why our audiobook packages include personalized narration coaching sessions and constant feedback through the recording process.

If you’re not comfortable narrating or if it feels overwhelming, hiring a professional narrator is a great option. If you prefer to hire a professional narrator, we can help coordinate that as well. We’ll work with the narrator and manage the production to ensure the final product follows your vision for the audiobook.

To discuss your audiobook in more detail, book a free consultation using the link at the top of the page.