Creating an audiobook sounds simple - read a book into a microphone, right?
Not so fast.
The bad news is, there are a number of ways to mess up your audiobook, and you might not even realize you’re doing it.
The good news is, with the right preparation and the right knowledge, you'll avoid these mistakes that turn off your listeners enough to turn off your book.
1. Poor sound quality alienates listeners.
Have you ever tried to listen to an audiobook that sounds like it was recorded in a wind tunnel? It’s painful.
Your listeners aren’t going to be as forgiving as you think when it comes to audio - they expect perfection.
And honestly, who can blame them? They’re paying for an immersive experience, not a static-filled distraction.
Fix it: Invest in a decent microphone and record in a quiet, sound-treated space. No, this doesn’t mean you need a $3,000 mic. Even a budget-friendly option will sound great if your recording space is set up right.
2. Mispronunciations can break immersion.
Here’s the reality: if you mispronounce a word, at least one listener will catch it - and they’ll never let it go. They might even think you're stupid. Or at least unqualified to read their book to them.
Unfair? Maybe.
But people have high expectations, especially when they're paying for the professionals to read to them.
Fix it: Do your homework! Look up pronunciations, ask the author if needed, or use tools like YouTube and Google for guidance. A little prep goes a long way.
3. Lack of emotional delivery ruins engagement.
Imagine listening to an audiobook where the narrator reads a dramatic scene like they’re reciting a grocery list. Not exactly gripping, huh?
Your tone and delivery are what bring the story to life, and if you don’t connect emotionally, neither will your audience.
Fix it: Practice! Think about the emotions behind the words and let them come through in your voice. You don’t have to overact, but you do need to make listeners feel something.
Comments