5 simple ways to make money on Audible: A step-by-step guide

Interested in making money with Audible? Want to generate passive income?

People constantly seek ways to multitask and make the most of every moment. This is where Audible comes in.

It offers a revolutionary solution to the age-old dilemma of finding time for reading amidst your busy schedule.

With Audible, you can immerse yourself in captivating stories, insightful knowledge, and thrilling adventures, all while commuting, exercising, or simply relaxing.

It’s like having a vast library of audiobooks, ranging from bestsellers to classics, and having the power to listen to them anywhere, anytime.

But Audible isn’t just a platform for consumers.

It’s also a treasure trove for those aspiring to be creators.

Whether you’re an author with a passion for storytelling, a talented narrator blessed with a melodious voice, or an entrepreneur seeking lucrative opportunities, Audible opens up new avenues for making money in the digital space.

In this article, we’ll take you on a journey into the captivating world of Audible.

We’ll also explore how you can tap into its potential to generate income while sharing your passion with the world.

What is Audible?

Audible is not just another audio entertainment service. It’s a gateway to a world of immersive storytelling and learning experiences.

Owned by Amazon, Audible is the world’s largest producer and distributor of audiobooks.

Did you know that Audible has over 200,000 audiobook titles?

It offers an extensive collection of audiobooks spanning multiple genres, captivating listeners with thrilling narratives, engaging non-fiction, and timeless classics.

The beauty of Audible lies in its flexibility and convenience.

With a simple app on your smartphone or tablet, you can access thousands of audiobooks at your fingertips.

Enjoy your favorite books while commuting, working, working out, or while relaxing at home.

Audible has transformed the way people consume literature and knowledge, making it possible to explore the world of books while on the go.

Audible offers a range of subscription options that cater to different preferences.

With a subscription, you gain access to monthly credits, which can be redeemed for audiobooks of your choice.

In addition to audiobooks, Audible also boasts an impressive selection of podcasts, original content, and exclusive productions.

From a casual listener to a dedicated book lover, Audible ensures that there’s something for everyone.

What is ACX?

ACX, short for Audiobook Creation Exchange, is a dynamic and innovative platform that serves as the bridge between aspiring authors, publishers, and talented narrators.

Created by Audible, ACX offers a unique marketplace where audiobook creators can collaborate, bringing captivating stories to life through the power of narration.

Consider ACX as a powerful tool that empowers authors and publishers to transform their written works into high-quality audiobooks.

With the ever-growing popularity of audiobooks, ACX has emerged as a crucial platform for those seeking to tap into this lucrative and expanding market.

And how exactly?

Collaboration and narration

One of the standout features of ACX is its vast pool of skilled narrators, each bringing their own unique style and voice to the table.

Authors and publishers can audition and select narrators that best complement their stories, adding depth and personality to their audiobooks.

Flexibility and control

ACX offers creators the freedom to choose between two main options for creating audiobooks: the “Royalty Share” or the “Pay for Production” models.

Royalty Share: In this model, the author and the narrator agree to share the earnings generated from the audiobook’s sales.

If you are working on a limited budget, this probably would be an attractive option to consider.

You can produce your audiobook without any upfront costs.

Pay for Production: As the name suggests, the “Pay for Production” model involves authors paying narrators upfront for their services.

While it requires an initial investment, it grants you complete control over the project.

You also get to retain all the royalties earned from audiobook sales.

Distribution and reach

Creating an audiobook is one thing and marketing is another whole new thing. It’s also an important thing if you want your audiobook to be a success.

This is where ACX comes in.

Once the audiobook is complete, ACX takes care of the distribution process, ensuring that your audiobook is available on Audible, Amazon, and iTunes.

With an extensive distribution network, you get to reach a global audience and tap into the vast customer base of Audible and Amazon.

Quality and standards

ACX is committed to maintaining high-quality standards for audiobooks.

It provides guidelines and resources to ensure that your final product meets industry standards.

Here’s a look at their submission guidelines.

This commitment to quality ensures listeners have a seamless and enjoyable listening experience, enhancing the reputation of both the audiobook and the creator.

Inclusive and supportive community

Want to be part of a like-minded community of creators?

ACX has you covered.

ACX fosters a supportive community of creators, where authors, narrators, and publishers can connect, share knowledge, and collaborate on projects.

Such communities can help create opportunities for networking, feedback, and mentorship, enriching the overall audiobook creation process.

Whether you’re a storyteller looking to expand your audience or a narrator seeking exciting opportunities, ACX offers a world of possibilities to explore and thrive in the realm of audiobook creation.

Can you make money on Audible?

The answer is a resounding “Yes!” 🙂

Audible provides a golden opportunity for creators, narrators, and authors to monetize their talent and passion for storytelling.

Over the years, Audible has witnessed numerous success stories of individuals who have earned substantial incomes through their audiobooks.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the most successful Audible accounts and the people behind them.

Most successful Audible stories: Highest earning Audible accounts

Several audiobook creators have achieved remarkable success on Audible, amassing a massive following and earning substantial royalties.

Some of the highest-earning Audible accounts include:

Knowledge by Marcus

Marcus, the brilliant mind behind “Knowledge by Marcus,” has become a sensation on Audible, attracting listeners from all walks of life.

With a focus on sharing valuable insights and wisdom, Marcus delves into various subjects, from personal growth and financial success to health and wellness.

His audiobooks serve as virtual mentors, guiding listeners on their journeys of self-improvement and enlightenment.

Through his engaging narration style and well-researched content, Marcus has carved a niche for himself in the competitive world of audiobooks, earning both accolades and financial success.

Paula Hawkins

Paula Hawkins needs no introduction. The acclaimed author of “The Girl on the Train” is a shining example of an author who has found immense success on Audible.

Her gripping psychological thrillers have captivated millions of readers and listeners around the world.

With her exceptional storytelling abilities, she has made a significant impact on the audiobook industry as well.

Her audiobooks, skillfully narrated and infused with suspense, keep listeners on the edge of their seats.

Paula Hawkins’ success on Audible stands as a testament to the power of enthralling storytelling and the enduring appeal of well-crafted mysteries.

George Guidall

With a career spanning over 40 years, George Guidall is a true legend in the world of audiobook narration.

Here’s an interesting fact.

During the course of his career, George Guidall has been the voice behind 1300+ titles.

His soothing and expressive voice has brought countless characters to life, making him a favorite among audiobook aficionados.

From classics to contemporary bestsellers, George Guidall’s narrations have won critical acclaim and earned him a devoted fan base.

While we could go on with more names, you get the point.

The success stories of Knowledge by Marcus, Paula Hawkins, and George Guidall serve as inspiring examples of what can be achieved with dedication, passion, and the magic of storytelling.

So, whether you’re an author, a narrator, or a creator with a unique perspective, Audible welcomes you to embark on a journey of creativity and financial success in the enchanting world of audiobooks.

5 ways to make money on Audible

Audible offers a range of ways creators and entrepreneurs can make money from audiobooks.

Let’s explore five compelling ways to turn your passion for storytelling into a profitable venture:

Create audiobooks

One of the most direct and rewarding ways to make money on Audible is by creating audiobooks.

If you’re an author or have written a compelling book, converting it into an audiobook opens up a whole new audience.

To get started, you can use Audible’s own Audiobook Creation Exchange (ACX).

How to create an audiobook on ACX (6 simple steps)

Step 1: Sign up

Begin by signing up on ACX as an author or a publisher.

Step 2: Upload your book

Upload your manuscript, ensuring it meets Audible’s submission requirements.

Step 3: Select a narrator

You have the option to narrate the audiobook yourself or collaborate with a skilled narrator.

If you choose the latter, ACX allows you to audition and select from a wide range of narrators based on their samples.

Step 4: Production

Once you’ve finalized the narrator, the production process begins. The narrator records the audiobook according to your manuscript.

Step 5: Review and approve

After the narration is complete, review the audiobook to ensure it aligns with your vision. If everything looks good, approve the final version.

Step 6: Distribution

Once the audiobook is approved, ACX handles the distribution across Audible, Amazon, and iTunes, making your creation available to millions of potential listeners.

By creating audiobooks, you tap into Audible’s massive user base and earn royalties based on sales. It’s a rewarding way to monetize your literary works.

Become an audiobook narrator

Do you possess a melodious voice? Have a passion for storytelling?

If so, becoming an audiobook narrator can be a lucrative venture.

ACX provides a platform where you can audition for various audiobook projects posted by authors and publishers.

To succeed as a narrator, you should possess excellent voice modulation, impeccable diction, and the ability to breathe life into characters.

Building a strong portfolio with diverse samples on ACX can attract more projects and help you establish yourself in the industry.

As a narrator, you earn royalties from the audiobook sales or receive upfront payments from authors who opt for the “Pay for Production” model.

It’s a rewarding way to share your talent and earn money doing what you love.

Affiliate marketing

Another way to make money with Audible is through affiliate marketing.

Affiliate marketing is an effective strategy for earning money on Audible without creating your own content.

By joining the Audible affiliate program, you can promote audiobooks to your audience through unique referral links.

When someone purchases an audiobook using your link, you earn a commission on the sale.

Currently, you can earn anywhere from $0.50 when you sell an Audible audiobook to $10 when you sell an Audible Gold Digital Membership.

To be successful in affiliate marketing, focus on recommending audiobooks that resonate with your audience and align with their interests.

Engaging storytelling and genuine recommendations can boost your affiliate earnings significantly.

Sell Audible products and services

In addition to audiobooks, Audible offers various products and services, such as monthly subscriptions and gift memberships.

As an Audible partner, you can promote these products and services to your audience and earn commissions for each successful sale.

By leveraging Audible’s extensive range of offerings, you can cater to different segments of your audience and diversify your revenue streams.

Online course: How to be successful on Audible

Know how to succeed on Audible? Can you teach others how to make money on Audible?

If so, create an online course!

If you’ve achieved success on Audible and have valuable insights to share, creating an online course can be a lucrative opportunity.

Many aspiring audiobook creators and narrators are willing to invest in learning from experienced individuals.

You could just be that person!

Your course can cover various topics, such as creating compelling audiobooks, marketing strategies, building a brand, and connecting with the audience.

Platforms like SureMembers can help you set up and sell your online course to a global audience.

Whether you’re an author, narrator, affiliate marketer, or educator, Audible’s platform opens doors to explore your creativity and turn it into a thriving source of income.

By tapping into the immense potential of audiobooks and the vast reach of Audible’s platform, you can embark on a rewarding journey in the ever-evolving world of storytelling.

How to sell on Audible: A step-by-step method

Selling on Audible involves more than just uploading your audiobook.

It requires strategic planning and thoughtful execution.

To maximize your sales and reach a broader audience, follow this step-by-step guide:

1. Sign up and prepare

Begin by signing up on the Audible Audiobook Creation Exchange (ACX) as an author or publisher.

We covered this earlier so we wouldn’t get into the details.

Just ensure that you have your audiobook ready in a high-quality format that meets Audible’s submission requirements.

The better prepared you are, the smoother the process will be.

2. Choose a profitable niche

Selecting a profitable niche is essential to attract the right audience.

Research what genres are currently popular on Audible and identify areas where your audiobook can stand out.

A well-defined niche will help you connect with listeners who have a genuine interest in your content.

3. Optimize your audiobook

Before publishing, review your audiobook to ensure it meets industry standards. Pay attention to audio quality, narration, and overall production value.

Engaging and professional-sounding audiobooks are more likely to attract positive reviews and more listeners.

4. Set the right price

Pricing your audiobook appropriately is crucial.

Consider the length of your audiobook, the content’s value, and the competitive landscape.

Finding the right balance between affordability and perceived value will encourage more potential buyers.

Here’s a tip.

Get inspiration from the work of other authors, and their pricing model, and price your audiobook accordingly.

5. Engage with professional narrators

If you’re not narrating the audiobook yourself, collaborate with professional narrators.

Skilled narrators can elevate your audiobook’s appeal and make it more enticing for listeners.

Work closely with narrators to ensure they understand your vision and can bring your characters to life.

6. Leverage promotional tools

Want to get your hands on some promotional tools to reach a wider audience?

Audible has you covered!

Take advantage of these resources to create eye-catching cover art, engaging descriptions, and enticing audiobook samples.

A compelling marketing package can significantly impact your audiobook’s success.

7. Utilize social media and your platform

Have a good following on social media? Generating consistent traffic on your website and blog?

If so, leverage your social media presence, website, or blog to promote your audiobook.

Engage with your audience by sharing behind-the-scenes insights, author interviews, and interactive content related to your audiobook.

Building a community around your audiobook will boost its visibility and encourage word-of-mouth promotion.

Also, certain marketing techniques can be practiced on social platforms, as social media is the most popular platform for promotion at the moment. You can give your readers and fans beautiful and relevant gifts, such as Custom pens designed in the image of the content or characters, and you can also add platforms or author tags and other creative ideas to attract the audience. Not only can you effectively promote your brand and products, but you can also maintain a relationship with your audience.

8. Encourage reviews and feedback

Reviews play a vital role in influencing potential buyers. Encourage your listeners to leave honest reviews and provide feedback.

Positive reviews will build credibility for your audiobook, while constructive feedback can help you improve future projects.

9. Participate in Audible’s promotions

Keep an eye out for promotional events and participate when possible.

Audible regularly runs sales, discounts, and other promotions that can boost your audiobook’s visibility and attract more buyers.

10. Monitor performance and adapt

The last, but equally important step is to track sales, reviews, and performance metrics regularly.

Analyze the data to identify trends, understand your audience better, and adapt your marketing strategy accordingly.

Stay open to making improvements and adjustments as necessary.

By following these steps and staying persistent, you can position your audiobook for success on Audible.

Embrace the journey of creating and promoting your work, and remember that building a loyal listener base takes time.

Stay committed, stay passionate, and keep sharing your stories with the world through the powerful medium of audiobooks.

Tips for making money on Audible

As you embark on your journey to make money on Audible, consider these tips to maximize your success:

Choose a profitable niche

While we have covered this earlier, it all begins with choosing the right niche.

Research what genres and topics are in demand on Audible and identify areas where your expertise can shine.

Choosing a niche with a dedicated audience will increase your audiobook’s visibility and attract more potential buyers.

Create quality content

Quality is key to standing out. With thousands of titles available on the platform, focus on producing audiobooks with well-crafted and engaging content.

Invest time in writing compelling stories, delivering valuable information, or crafting insightful narratives.

A strong story or well-researched non-fiction can leave a lasting impact on listeners and lead to positive reviews and increased sales.

Engage with professional narrators and influencers

Collaborating with professional narrators can elevate your audiobook’s production value and enhance the listening experience.

Look for narrators who have a track record of success and whose voices align with your audiobook’s tone and characters.

In addition, engaging with influencers in your niche can expand your audiobook’s reach.

Seek out book bloggers, social media influencers, and relevant podcasters who can promote your audiobook to their dedicated audiences.

Sell through ACX

Utilize the Audiobook Creation Exchange (ACX) platform to sell.

ACX offers a wide distribution network that includes Audible, Amazon, and iTunes, giving you access to millions of potential listeners.

The platform provides valuable resources and guidelines to help you navigate the audiobook creation and publishing process successfully.

Build your own audience

Invest time and effort in growing your social media following, building an email list, or maintaining an engaging blog or website.

Having your own dedicated audience allows you to communicate directly with fans, promote audiobooks effectively, and create a loyal listener base.

Use Audible’s marketing tools

Audible offers various marketing tools to promote your audiobook effectively.

Leverage these resources to create compelling covers, engaging descriptions, and enticing samples.

A well-crafted marketing package can make a significant difference in attracting potential buyers.

Get creative with your cover art

Cover art plays a crucial role in attracting potential listeners.

Invest in a professional cover design that captures the essence of your audiobook and appeals to your target audience.

A visually appealing and eye-catching cover can entice more people to explore your audiobook.

Beautiful covers can also be utilized in physical books as an engaging marketing tool. Platform information can also be added to it. For example, QR Code Stickers with a link to Audible can be given or attached to the cover. When customers are attracted by the cover, they can manually scan the QR code to transfer to Audible to listen to the story. That is, it can promote Audible and also give readers more choices of reading methods.

Selling audio files and podcasts with SureCart and SureMembers

Want to sell your audio content and podcasts on your own platform?

If you love using WordPress like we do, you could sell audio files on your own website using SureCart and SureMembers.

SureMembers is a WordPress membership plugin that allows you to create a subscription-based model to restrict your content and courses.

Another great tool for selling audio files and courses is SureCart. The powerful checkout builder helps you set up and sell books in the usual way or as part of a membership.

Let’s explore the pros, cons, and pricing:

Pros

• Complete control: With your own platform, you have complete control over everything. Right from the branding to being able to promote only your content. You also retain 100% of the sale proceedings
• Diversify income: Add multiple streams of revenue on your platform. Selling audio files and podcasts can add new revenue streams beyond traditional audiobook sales
• Monetize expertise: You can create exclusive content that showcases your expertise and attracts dedicated followers
• Targeted audience: You’d be attracting only a targeted audience to your platform. Visitors who are looking only for your content. This way, your conversion rate is higher

Cons

• Additional effort: You’ll need to manage everything, right from setting up the platform to marketing and managing sales. This can be time-consuming

Pricing

• SureMembers: The Pro plan starts at $99/year
• SureCart: The basic version is free. For advanced features, the plans start at $99/year

Making money with Audible requires careful planning, dedication, and a commitment to delivering high-quality content.

By choosing a profitable niche, creating engaging audiobooks, collaborating with professionals, utilizing Audible’s resources, and building your audience, you can position yourself for success.

Exploring additional revenue streams through SureCart and SureMembers can also provide exciting opportunities to monetize your expertise and build a loyal fan base.

Embrace these tips, stay persistent, and immerse yourself in the world of audiobooks to make your mark on Audible.

FAQs

Conclusion

Audible has emerged as a beacon of opportunity for creators, narrators, and authors seeking to make money while indulging in their passion for storytelling.

With its vast platform and global reach, Audible offers an array of avenues to explore and monetize the art of audiobooks.

By choosing a profitable niche and creating high-quality content, you can captivate audiences and build a loyal listener base.

Whether you’re a seasoned author or a budding narrator, the Audible Audiobook Creation Exchange (ACX) provides a seamless platform to bring your stories to life and share them with the world.

Utilizing Audible’s marketing tools and participating in promotions can significantly boost your audiobook’s visibility.

Exploring additional revenue streams, such as selling audio files and podcasts through SureCart and SureMembers, can diversify your income and showcase your expertise.

Remember that success often takes time and persistence.

Embrace the journey of creativity and adapt to feedback to improve your craft continually.

Stay passionate, dedicated, and committed to producing top-notch audiobooks that resonate with listeners and leave them eagerly anticipating your next creation.

Finally, the magic of audiobooks lies not just in making money but in the art of storytelling itself.

Embrace the joy of storytelling, and let Audible be your gateway to endless opportunities, creative fulfillment, and financial success!