Retakes

Term from Audio Book Production industry explained for recruiters

Retakes are the process of re-recording parts of an audiobook that need improvement. When voice actors or narrators make mistakes, have inconsistent audio quality, or need to improve their performance, they do retakes of specific sections rather than recording the entire book again. This is similar to how movie actors might reshoot scenes that weren't perfect the first time. This term is essential in audiobook production as it relates directly to quality control and the final product's professional sound.

Examples in Resumes

Managed Retakes scheduling for 50+ audiobook projects, reducing production delays by 30%

Directed voice talent during Retake sessions to ensure consistent audio quality

Reduced Retakes by 40% through improved preparation and talent coaching

Typical job title: "Audio Production Coordinators"

Also try searching for:

Audio Book Producer Audio Production Manager Voice-Over Director Audio Quality Controller Audio Book Editor Audio Production Coordinator Audio Post-Production Specialist

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you manage multiple retake sessions across different projects while maintaining efficiency?

Expected Answer: A senior producer should discuss scheduling strategies, prioritization methods, communication with talent and clients, and how they track and manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining quality standards.

Q: What strategies have you implemented to reduce the need for retakes?

Expected Answer: Should explain preventive measures like proper talent preparation, clear direction, optimal recording conditions, and quality control processes that catch issues early.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you determine when a retake is necessary versus when the audio is acceptable?

Expected Answer: Should discuss quality standards, common audio issues, client requirements, and the balance between perfectionism and practical constraints.

Q: Describe your process for organizing and tracking retakes in a large project.

Expected Answer: Should explain their system for marking sections needing retakes, communicating with narrators, and ensuring all corrections are completed and properly inserted.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the most common reasons for requesting retakes?

Expected Answer: Should mention technical issues like background noise, performance issues like mispronunciations, and quality issues like inconsistent volume or tone.

Q: How do you prepare for a retake session with a narrator?

Expected Answer: Should discuss organizing notes, marking scripts, preparing technical equipment, and ensuring proper communication with the voice talent.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic audio quality assessment
  • Script marking and tracking
  • Communication with narrators
  • Basic audio editing skills

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Efficient retake session management
  • Quality control processes
  • Project scheduling and coordination
  • Advanced audio editing techniques

Senior (5+ years)

  • Multiple project management
  • Training and mentoring team members
  • Strategic quality improvement
  • Client relationship management

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No experience with audio editing software
  • Poor communication skills
  • Lack of attention to detail
  • No understanding of audio quality standards
  • Unable to work under time pressure

Related Terms