Hi, Farah! Thanks for the nice note.

I love audiobook narrators and narration so much that I created and continue to update my site NarratorsRoadmap.com, which is THE place for audiobook narrators at all levels!

Because the demand for audiobooks has exploded in recent years, narrators are faced with increasing competition, not only from our fellow humans but from AI voices. Longtime narrators are experiencing more dry spells in which they aren’t cast for books. Many are working at least part-time jobs in another area to meet their financial obligations.

We must continue improving and showcasing our performances, marketing our service to those who could hire us, and producing our own work.

Best wishes for your success!

Karen

You wrote this article way back in Sept 2014, I just read it in Sept 25 and find it most relevant.
Thank you for such elaborate suggestions and links to resources.

I am from Mumbai India. Many people have told me that I am good with voice modulation and I should try radio or some book reading. Though I personally don’t like my recorded voice :)).

What is your take on this profession 10 yrs from 2014.. Today

I am going to do your assessment quiz next and see where I stand.
I take it as a sign from universe that I happen to come across your link while I was managing my subscription to a language that I am learning.

Thank you once again. I hope you are in good health and will respond to my curiosities.
Best, Farah

Hi, Meliora! I’m so glad you’ve found my info to be useful!

In addition to exploring the training options I presented, you might also consider using a different DAW. Many narrators use Adobe Audition, Reaper, or Studio One instead of Pro Tools. These other software packages have interfaces that some find easier to understand.

Best wishes for your success!

Karen

Hi, Farah! Thanks for the note.

You didn’t say whether you’ve had any training or experience in both audiobook performance and the technical skills needed to do the job.

My Audiobook Narrator Self-Assessment Quiz will help you determine what you need to learn.

My site NarratorsRoadmap.com will give you much more info about getting started. You can find a coach on the linked spreadsheet.

Once you are ready to work at a professional level, your coach can advise you of American and possibly UK and European countries who hire native speakers. You can also do a Google search to find a growing number of audiobook production companies in India.

I hope this info is helpful. Best wishes for your success!

Karen

Good Going! Stay safe!

Hi, Jen! Think of your profile like a résumé. Even though you haven’t worked professionally as a narrator, you probably have training, experiences, skills, and abilities that can be repackaged and showcased on your profile.

The questions below should start you thinking about what makes you unique that could intrigue a rights holder.

* Have you volunteered as a reader for the visually impaired? Write that down.

* Have you undertaken any audiobook-specific coaching? Include it.

* Have you done any professional speaking or training, either as a freelancer or on your day job? Those skills can be relevant to your work as a narrator.

* What acting experience or training do you have? Tell us about it.

* In which areas do you have subject matter expertise? Some author may be looking for a narrator who already understands terminology relevant to a job.

* What advanced education have you attained?

* Are you fluent in or have facility with any foreign languages?

This article on the ACX blog and other profiles will give you more ideas and inspiration.

I hope these thoughts are helpful. Best wishes for your success!

Karen

Thank you so much for the feedback!

Hi, Hannah! Thanks so much for the nice note. I’m so glad to know you find my info to be useful.

I’m not aware of any specific narrator training in Edmonton. I do know that narrator Dawn Harvey is conducting a class in Calgary on 2 November, which could be worth the drive for you.

However, in person training is not mandatory. Most coaches work with their students long distance via Skype or Zoom video meetings. You’ll find coaches in the spreadsheet linked within the article.

I invite you to visit my new site NarratorsRoadmap.com for more free articles and links to terrific resources. If you sign up for the Members Express Pass, you’ll also have access to an incredible industry-specific, color-coded calendar in 8 categories of world-wide events, including narrator training, book festivals, and author events.

Thanks again for your comments, and best wishes for your success!

Karen