What Casting Directors Look for in a Narrator—And How I Deliver

In an audiobook landscape packed with talent, casting directors are constantly on the lookout for narrators who are not only skilled, but reliable, collaborative, and easy to work with. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of auditioning for and working with some fantastic producers and publishers—including a few who’ve generously passed along their thoughts on what makes a narrator stand out. Here's a peek behind the curtain at what casting directors value most—and how I strive to meet (or exceed) those expectations every time.

🎧 1. A Confident, Authentic Read—Right Out of the Gate

What they want: Someone who makes strong, informed choices and commits to them from the first word.

How I deliver: Before hitting record, I spend time with the script—not just reading it, but absorbing the tone, the characters, and the pacing the story calls for. Whether it’s a gritty thriller or a heartwarming memoir, I make sure the sample I submit reflects the world the author built, with clear vocal distinctions and emotionally appropriate delivery.

📚 2. An Understanding of Subtext and Nuance

What they want: Someone who doesn’t just read the lines but understands what’s beneath them.

How I deliver: This is where my training in acting and improv comes into play. I’ve learned to look for emotional pivots, shifts in power, and the quiet beats that matter just as much as the dramatic ones. It’s not just about the words—it’s about the why behind them.

🧩 3. Range—Without Overacting

What they want: A narrator who can differentiate characters naturally without sounding cartoonish or forced.

How I deliver: My goal is always believability. Whether I’m voicing a grizzled detective, a college-aged woman, or a non-fiction narrator with a steady, neutral tone, I focus on vocal shifts in rhythm, pitch, and posture—not gimmicks. I aim for realism, not theatrics, unless the genre calls for it.

🕒 4. Dependability and Clear Communication

What they want: Someone who meets deadlines, communicates clearly, and doesn’t require handholding.

How I deliver: I treat every project like a partnership. From the initial sample to final file delivery, I keep lines of communication open. I’m clear about timelines, send status updates, and make sure authors or producers have exactly what they need before and after I hit 'send.' I also offer a 15-minute sample read before beginning full production so we’re aligned on tone and character from the start.

🎙️ 5. Broadcast-Quality Audio and a Professional Setup

What they want: No excuses—just clean, consistent, professional sound.

How I deliver: I record in an acoustically treated space using a Rode NT1 mic, Audient iD14 interface, and Beyerdynamic DT770 Pro headphones. I use Reaper for editing and punch-and-roll for accuracy, then proof, master, and QC each chapter with a sharp ear and a clean signal chain. What you get is final-quality audio, ready to publish.

Final Thoughts

Casting directors juggle dozens—if not hundreds—of narrator submissions for each project. I do everything I can to make their job easier: submit strong reads, communicate clearly, and deliver consistently. Whether it's a one-off audition or the first book in a long-running series, I’m all in.

If you're casting and looking for a narrator who brings commitment, clarity, and character to every project, I’d love to connect.