Introduction to Audible: A Guide on How to Make Money with Audiobooks
Welcome to the world of Audible, where you can turn your passion for books into a lucrative income stream. Audiobooks have gained immense popularity in recent years, providing a convenient way for people to consume literature on the go. With Audible, you have the opportunity to not only enjoy your favorite books but also make money by narrating and publishing your own audiobooks. In this guide, we will explore the various steps involved in making money with audiobooks on Audible.
Choosing the Right Genre and Niche
Before diving into the process of creating audiobooks, it's crucial to identify the genre and niche that aligns with your interests and expertise. Audible offers a wide range of categories, including fiction, non-fiction, self-help, business, and more. Consider your personal preferences, knowledge, and the market demand for each genre. Conduct thorough research to understand the target audience, popular trends, and potential profitability of different niches within your chosen genre.
Once you have identified your niche, it's time to brainstorm book ideas that will captivate your audience. Look for unique angles, compelling storylines, or valuable insights that will set your audiobook apart from the competition. Remember, the key to success lies in offering something valuable and engaging to your listeners.
Furthermore, it's essential to keep in mind the length of your audiobook. Audible provides guidelines for minimum and maximum durations, so make sure your chosen niche allows for a suitable length. Shorter audiobooks may be ideal for certain genres, while others may require more extensive content.
Creating High-Quality Audiobooks
Once you have finalized your book idea, it's time to bring it to life through narration. Creating high-quality audiobooks requires careful planning and attention to detail. Here are the essential steps:
1. Script Preparation: Begin by preparing a script for your audiobook. This involves converting your written book into a format suitable for narration. Pay attention to the flow, pacing, and readability of the text. Consider the tone and voice you want to convey to your listeners.
2. Recording Equipment: Invest in a good quality microphone, headphones, and audio recording software. These tools are essential for capturing clear and professional audio. Create a quiet recording space to minimize background noise and ensure optimal sound quality.
3. Narration: Start recording your audiobook, chapter by chapter. Maintain a consistent tone and pace throughout the narration. Pay attention to proper pronunciation, enunciation, and emotional expression. Take breaks as needed to maintain vocal clarity and energy.
4. Editing and Post-Production: After completing the narration, edit the audio files to remove any mistakes, background noise, or long pauses. Enhance the audio quality by adjusting volume levels, adding music or sound effects if appropriate, and ensuring a smooth listening experience for your audience.
5. Proofing and Quality Assurance: Listen to the final edited version of your audiobook to ensure it meets the highest standards of quality. Check for any errors, inconsistencies, or technical glitches. Consider seeking feedback from trusted individuals or hiring a professional proofreader to ensure a polished final product.
Publishing and Marketing Your Audiobook
Once your audiobook is ready, it's time to publish and market it effectively to maximize your earnings. Follow these steps:
1. ACX Platform: ACX is the audiobook publishing platform associated with Audible. Sign up for an account and familiarize yourself with the platform's guidelines and requirements.
2. Audiobook Metadata: Provide accurate and compelling metadata for your audiobook, including title, author name, genre, description, and keywords. These details play a crucial role in helping potential listeners discover your audiobook.
3. Audiobook Cover Art: Design an eye-catching and professional cover art that represents your audiobook effectively. The cover should be visually appealing and aligned with the genre and theme of your book.
4. Pricing and Royalties: Determine the pricing and royalty options for your audiobook. Audible offers various pricing models, including exclusive distribution, non-exclusive distribution, and royalty share. Choose the option that best suits your goals and financial expectations.
5. Marketing and Promotion: Develop a marketing plan to create awareness and generate interest in your audiobook. Leverage social media platforms, author websites, email marketing, and other promotional channels to reach your target audience. Consider offering free promotional copies or collaborating with influencers to boost visibility.
Remember, building a successful income stream with audiobooks on Audible takes time, effort, and persistence. Continuously evaluate listener feedback, adapt your strategies, and explore new opportunities to enhance your audiobook portfolio and increase your earnings.
Now that you have a comprehensive guide on how to make money with audiobooks on Audible, it's time to unleash your creativity and embark on this exciting journey. Start by choosing the right genre, creating captivating audiobooks, and effectively marketing your work. With dedication and perseverance, you can turn your passion for storytelling into a rewarding source of income.
Monetizing Your Voice: Strategies for Making Money with Audible
Introduction
With the rise of audiobooks and the increasing popularity of platforms like Audible, there has never been a better time to monetize your voice. Whether you're a professional voice actor or simply have a captivating voice, Audible offers a range of opportunities to turn your talent into a lucrative income stream. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore step-by-step strategies to help you make money with Audible.
1. Getting Started with Audible
Before diving into the various money-making strategies, it's crucial to familiarize yourself with Audible and understand how it works. Audible is an audiobook platform owned by Amazon, offering a vast library of audiobooks across different genres. To get started, follow these steps:
Step 1: Visit the Audible website or download the Audible app from your smartphone's app store.
Step 2: Sign up for an Audible account. You can choose between a free or premium membership.
Step 3: Explore the Audible library and listen to a variety of audiobooks to get a feel for different genres and narration styles.
2. Developing Your Voice Acting Skills
While having a pleasant voice is a good start, honing your voice acting skills is essential to stand out in the competitive world of audiobook narration. Here are some steps to develop your voice acting skills:
Step 1: Take voice acting classes or workshops to learn techniques, such as breath control, vocal range, and character development.
Step 2: Practice reading aloud regularly to improve your diction, pacing, and overall delivery.
Step 3: Listen to professional voice actors and study their techniques. Pay attention to how they bring characters to life and convey emotions through their voice.
3. Creating Your Audiobook
Once you feel confident in your voice acting abilities, it's time to create your own audiobook. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Choose a book that is in the public domain or obtain the necessary rights to narrate a copyrighted book.
Step 2: Set up a recording studio at home or rent a professional studio if you prefer. Ensure you have high-quality recording equipment and soundproofing.
Step 3: Break the book into manageable sections and create a recording schedule. Consistency is key to maintaining a professional workflow.
Step 4: Record each section, ensuring clear and articulate narration. Take breaks as needed to maintain vocal quality.
Step 5: Edit the recordings using audio editing software to remove any mistakes or background noise. Enhance the overall sound quality.
Step 6: Add appropriate pauses, chapter markers, and other metadata to the audiobook files.
4. Publishing Your Audiobook on Audible
Now that your audiobook is ready, it's time to publish it on Audible and start generating income. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Sign in to your Audible account and navigate to the Audiobook Creation Exchange (ACX) platform.
Step 2: Create a new audiobook project and provide all the necessary details, including the book's title, author, and genre.
Step 3: Upload your audiobook files, ensuring they meet Audible's technical requirements. ACX provides guidelines for audio format, bit rate, and overall quality.
Step 4: Set your audiobook's price and royalty rate. Audible offers different royalty options, so choose the one that aligns with your income goals.
Step 5: Submit your audiobook for review. Audible's team will listen to ensure the audio quality meets their standards.
Step 6: Once approved, your audiobook will be available for purchase on Audible, and you'll start earning royalties for each sale.
5. Promoting Your Audiobook
Now that your audiobook is live on Audible, it's time to promote it and maximize your earnings. Here are some effective strategies:
Step 1: Leverage social media platforms to create buzz around your audiobook. Share snippets, behind-the-scenes footage, and engage with potential listeners.
Step 2: Reach out to book bloggers, podcasters, and influencers in your book's genre. Offer them free copies of your audiobook in exchange for honest reviews or promotional mentions.
Step 3: Collaborate with other authors or voice actors to cross-promote each other's work. This can expand your reach and attract new listeners.
Step 4: Consider investing in paid advertising on platforms like Facebook or Instagram to target audiobook enthusiasts.
Step 5: Engage with your audience by hosting virtual events, Q&A sessions, or giveaways. Building a loyal fanbase can lead to word-of-mouth recommendations and increased sales.
Conclusion
Monetizing your voice through Audible is an exciting opportunity to showcase your talent and generate income. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can develop your voice acting skills, create and publish your own audiobook, and effectively promote it to reach a wider audience. Remember, success in the audiobook industry requires dedication, persistence, and a commitment to continuously improving your craft. So, start exploring the world of Audible and embark on your journey to make money with your captivating voice.
Exploring the Audible Affiliate Program: Earning Potential and Tips
Introduction
With the rise of audiobooks, the Audible platform has become a popular choice for book lovers who prefer to listen rather than read. But did you know that you can also make money through the Audible Affiliate Program? In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the earning potential and provide you with valuable tips to maximize your earnings as an Audible affiliate.
Understanding the Audible Affiliate Program
The Audible Affiliate Program is a way for individuals and businesses to earn commissions by promoting Audible memberships and audiobooks. As an affiliate, you will receive a unique referral link that tracks your referrals and any subsequent purchases made by those referrals. When someone signs up for a free trial or purchases an audiobook through your link, you earn a commission.
Now that we have a basic understanding of the Audible Affiliate Program, let's explore the earning potential it offers.
Earning Potential of the Audible Affiliate Program
The earning potential of the Audible Affiliate Program is quite promising. Audible offers a competitive commission structure, which rewards affiliates for both free trial sign-ups and paid memberships. Currently, Audible affiliates can earn a commission of $15 for each free trial sign-up and up to $50 for each paid membership sign-up.
It's important to note that the commission structure may vary based on factors such as the geographic location of the referral and the type of membership purchased. However, even with these variations, the earning potential remains lucrative.
Now that we know the earning potential, let's dive into some tips to help you succeed as an Audible affiliate.
Tips for Success as an Audible Affiliate
1. Target the Right Audience: To maximize your earnings, it's crucial to target the right audience. Consider focusing on book lovers, commuters, and individuals who are interested in personal development. These demographics are more likely to be interested in audiobooks and Audible memberships.
2. Create Engaging Content: Content is key when it comes to promoting Audible. Write engaging blog posts, create informative videos, or even start a podcast discussing the benefits of audiobooks. The more valuable and engaging your content is, the more likely it is to attract potential customers.
3. Leverage Social Media: Social media platforms provide an excellent opportunity to reach a wider audience. Utilize platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to share your content, engage with your audience, and promote your Audible affiliate links. Remember to provide genuine recommendations and valuable insights to build trust with your followers.
4. Offer Incentives: Offering incentives can be a great way to entice potential customers to sign up for Audible through your affiliate link. Consider offering exclusive discounts, bonus content, or even personalized recommendations to make your offer more enticing.
5. Track and Analyze: To optimize your affiliate marketing efforts, it's essential to track and analyze your results. Utilize tracking tools provided by Audible or third-party affiliate marketing platforms to monitor the performance of your campaigns. By analyzing your data, you can identify what works best and make informed decisions to improve your earning potential.
6. Stay Updated: The world of audiobooks and affiliate marketing is constantly evolving. Stay updated with the latest trends, new releases, and changes in the Audible Affiliate Program. By staying informed, you can adapt your strategies and take advantage of new opportunities.
By following these tips, you can enhance your earning potential as an Audible affiliate and build a successful affiliate marketing business.
Conclusion
The Audible Affiliate Program provides a fantastic opportunity to earn money by promoting audiobooks and Audible memberships. With its competitive commission structure and the growing popularity of audiobooks, the earning potential is significant. By targeting the right audience, creating engaging content, leveraging social media, offering incentives, tracking and analyzing your results, and staying updated, you can maximize your earnings as an Audible affiliate. So, why wait? Start exploring the Audible Affiliate Program today and embark on a journey towards financial success!
Creating and Selling Audiobooks on Audible: Profitable Opportunities
Welcome to the world of audiobooks, where the spoken word meets the digital age. Audible, an Amazon-owned platform, has revolutionized the way we consume books by providing a vast library of audiobooks for listeners worldwide. But did you know that Audible also offers a fantastic opportunity for authors and content creators to make money? In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the steps to create and sell audiobooks on Audible, and uncover the profitable opportunities that await you.
Understanding the Potential of Audiobooks
Before diving into the process of creating and selling audiobooks on Audible, it's essential to understand why this medium holds so much potential. Audiobooks have experienced a significant surge in popularity in recent years, with more and more people embracing the convenience of listening to books while on the go. This growing demand opens up a world of opportunities for authors, publishers, and even voice actors.
Listeners appreciate the immersive experience audiobooks provide, allowing them to enjoy their favorite stories while driving, exercising, or simply relaxing. With Audible's extensive user base and global reach, authors can tap into a vast market of avid audiobook enthusiasts, making it an attractive platform to monetize their literary creations.
Now that we understand the potential of audiobooks, let's explore the step-by-step process of creating and selling your audiobook on Audible.
Step 1: Choose Your Audiobook's Genre and Target Audience
Every successful audiobook starts with a clear understanding of its genre and target audience. When deciding on the genre, consider your strengths as a writer and your passion for specific topics. It's essential to choose a genre that aligns with your expertise and interests to create a compelling and authentic audiobook experience.
Once you've determined the genre, identify your target audience. Are you writing for young adults, romance enthusiasts, or business professionals? Understanding your audience's preferences and interests will help you tailor your content and narration style to resonate with them effectively.
Remember, the more targeted your audiobook is, the higher the chances of attracting a loyal listener base and generating revenue.
Step 2: Write or Adapt Your Book for Audiobook Format
Now that you have your genre and target audience defined, it's time to adapt your existing book or start writing a new one specifically for the audiobook format. Keep in mind that audiobooks require a slightly different approach compared to traditional print or e-books.
When adapting your book, consider the following factors:
- Ensure the content flows well when read aloud.
- Avoid complex sentence structures or excessive use of jargon.
- Pay attention to the pacing and rhythm of the narration.
- Add extra emphasis or inflections where appropriate to enhance the listener's experience.
If you're starting from scratch, embrace the unique qualities of the audiobook format from the beginning. Craft your storytelling in a way that captivates listeners, leveraging the power of voice to bring your characters and narrative to life.
Remember, engaging content coupled with a compelling narration can significantly impact your audiobook's success.
Step 3: Choose a Professional Narrator or Narrate Your Audiobook
When it comes to narrating your audiobook, you have two options: hire a professional narrator or narrate it yourself. Both choices have their pros and cons, so consider your budget, time availability, and vocal capabilities before making a decision.
If you decide to hire a professional narrator, ensure they have experience in the audiobook industry and can bring your story to life effectively. Audible's Audiobook Creation Exchange (ACX) platform provides a vast pool of talented narrators to choose from, allowing you to find the perfect voice for your audiobook.
If you choose to narrate your audiobook yourself, ensure you have the necessary equipment, a quiet recording space, and the ability to deliver a high-quality recording. Remember, your narration should be clear, engaging, and professional to provide an enjoyable listening experience.
Step 4: Produce and Edit Your Audiobook
Once you have the narration recorded, it's time to produce and edit your audiobook. This step involves cleaning up any background noise, adjusting audio levels, and ensuring a smooth and seamless listening experience.
If you have the technical skills and equipment, you can edit the audiobook yourself using audio editing software like Audacity or Adobe Audition. Alternatively, you can hire a professional audio engineer to handle the post-production process for you.
Remember, the quality of your audiobook's production can significantly impact its reception and success on Audible.
Step 5: Publish Your Audiobook on Audible via ACX
With your audiobook ready, it's time to publish it on Audible. Audible allows authors and publishers to upload their audiobooks through the Audiobook Creation Exchange (ACX) platform, which serves as a marketplace connecting content creators with listeners.
To publish your audiobook on Audible, follow these steps:
- Create an ACX account and provide the necessary information about your audiobook.
- Upload your audiobook files, cover art, and any additional metadata required.
- Set the pricing and distribution options for your audiobook.
- Review and approve the final audiobook before it goes live.
Once your audiobook is published on Audible, it becomes available to millions of potential listeners worldwide.
Step 6: Promote Your Audiobook and Maximize Sales
Creating and publishing your audiobook is just the beginning. To maximize sales and generate a steady stream of income, you need to actively promote your audiobook.
Consider the following promotional strategies:
- Utilize social media platforms to engage with your target audience and share updates about your audiobook.
- Collaborate with influencers or other authors in your genre to cross-promote each other's audiobooks.
- Offer limited-time discounts or promotional codes to attract new listeners.
- Encourage listeners to leave reviews and ratings on Audible to boost your audiobook's visibility.
Remember, effective marketing and promotion are crucial to stand out in the competitive audiobook market.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You now have a comprehensive guide on creating and selling audiobooks on Audible. By understanding the potential of audiobooks, choosing the right genre and target audience, crafting engaging content, and leveraging professional narration, you can tap into the profitable opportunities that Audible offers.
Remember, success in the audiobook industry requires dedication, continuous promotion, and a commitment to delivering high-quality content. So, start creating your audiobook today and embark on an exciting journey towards making money through Audible.
Marketing Your Audiobook on Audible: Techniques for Maximizing Revenue
Introduction
Welcome to a comprehensive guide on how to effectively market your audiobook on Audible and maximize your revenue potential. In today's digital age, audiobooks have gained immense popularity, opening up new opportunities for authors and publishers to reach a wider audience. However, simply creating an audiobook is not enough; you need to employ effective marketing strategies to stand out from the competition and attract listeners. In this guide, we will explore some proven techniques to help you market your audiobook successfully on Audible.
Understanding Your Target Audience
Before diving into marketing techniques, it is crucial to understand your target audience. Identifying the demographics, interests, and preferences of your potential listeners will enable you to tailor your marketing efforts accordingly. Conduct thorough market research, analyze competitor audiobooks, and gather insights from your existing readership to gain a deep understanding of who your target audience is.
Once you have a clear picture of your target audience, you can proceed to the next step of crafting a compelling marketing strategy.
1. Creating an Engaging Audiobook Cover: Your audiobook cover is the first visual impression potential listeners have, so make it count. Invest in professional cover design that aligns with your genre and grabs attention. Ensure the title and author name are clear and readable, even in thumbnail sizes.
2. Optimizing Your Audiobook Description: Your audiobook description is your sales pitch, so make it compelling. Highlight the unique selling points, key themes, and benefits of your audiobook. Use persuasive language and include snippets of positive reviews to entice potential listeners.
3. Choosing the Right Category and Keywords: Selecting the appropriate category and keywords for your audiobook is crucial for discoverability. Research the categories that best fit your audiobook's genre and themes, and choose relevant keywords that potential listeners are likely to search for. This will increase the chances of your audiobook appearing in relevant search results.
Building an Author Platform
In today's digital world, having a strong author platform is essential for successful audiobook marketing. An author platform is the sum of your online presence, including your website, social media profiles, and email list. Here are some key steps to build a robust author platform:
1. Creating an Author Website: Build a professional website that showcases your audiobook, provides information about you as an author, and offers a platform for engaging with your audience. Include links to your audiobook on Audible, as well as sample chapters or audio excerpts to hook potential listeners.
2. Establishing a Social Media Presence: Leverage popular social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube to connect with your target audience. Share engaging content related to your audiobook, interact with fans, and run promotional campaigns to generate buzz.
3. Building an Email List: Encourage visitors to your website and social media profiles to subscribe to your email list. This allows you to directly communicate with your audience, inform them about new releases, offer exclusive content or discounts, and build a loyal fan base.
Collaborating with Influencers and Reviewers
One effective way to increase the visibility and credibility of your audiobook is by collaborating with influencers and reviewers in your genre. These individuals have established audiences who trust their recommendations. Here's how you can leverage their influence:
1. Identifying Relevant Influencers and Reviewers: Research popular influencers and reviewers in your audiobook's genre. Look for individuals with a large following and engagement on platforms like YouTube, blogs, or social media.
2. Reaching Out for Collaborations: Craft personalized and compelling pitches to influencers and reviewers, explaining why your audiobook would resonate with their audience. Offer free review copies or exclusive content to entice them to promote your audiobook.
3. Encouraging Reviews and Ratings: Positive reviews and ratings on Audible can significantly impact your audiobook's visibility and credibility. Encourage your listeners to leave honest reviews and ratings, and engage with them by responding to their feedback.
Utilizing Paid Advertising and Promotions
While organic marketing efforts are crucial, investing in paid advertising and promotions can give your audiobook an extra boost. Here are some effective strategies:
1. Running Targeted Ads: Platforms like Facebook Ads and Google Ads allow you to target specific demographics and interests, ensuring your ads reach potential listeners who are more likely to be interested in your audiobook.
2. Participating in Audiobook Promotions: Keep an eye out for Audible promotions like Daily Deals or Whispersync for Voice, which can significantly increase your audiobook's visibility and sales. Submit your audiobook for consideration in these promotions.
3. Utilizing Audiobook Distribution Services: Consider using audiobook distribution services like ACX Promotions or AudiobookBoom to reach a wider audience and gain exposure for your audiobook.
Engaging with Your Audience
Building a strong connection with your audience is crucial for long-term success. Engage with your listeners and foster a community around your audiobook. Here are some strategies:
1. Responding to Listener Feedback: Actively respond to listener reviews, comments, and messages. Show appreciation for positive feedback and address any concerns or issues raised by your audience.
2. Offering Exclusive Content: Provide bonus content, such as behind-the-scenes insights, author interviews, or exclusive short stories, to reward your loyal listeners and keep them engaged.
3. Running Contests and Giveaways: Organize contests or giveaways to create excitement and incentivize your audience to spread the word about your audiobook. Offer free copies, merchandise, or even personalized experiences as prizes.
Conclusion
Marketing your audiobook on Audible requires a strategic and multifaceted approach. By understanding your target audience, building an author platform, collaborating with influencers, utilizing paid advertising, and engaging with your audience, you can maximize your revenue potential and increase the visibility of your audiobook. Remember, effective marketing is an ongoing process, so continuously monitor and adapt your strategies to stay ahead in the competitive audiobook market. Best of luck with your audiobook marketing journey!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How can I make money with Audible?
There are several ways to make money with Audible. You can become an audiobook narrator or producer, publish your own audiobooks, or join the Audible affiliate program to earn commissions.
2. Is it easy to become an audiobook narrator or producer?
Becoming an audiobook narrator or producer requires some effort and dedication. You need to have a good voice, proper recording equipment, and editing skills. However, with practice and perseverance, it is possible to succeed in this field.
3. How can I publish my own audiobooks on Audible?
To publish your own audiobooks on Audible, you need to sign up as a content provider on ACX (Audiobook Creation Exchange). ACX is a platform that connects authors, publishers, and narrators. Once your audiobook is produced and meets Audible's quality standards, you can submit it for distribution.
4. What is the Audible affiliate program?
The Audible affiliate program allows you to earn commissions by promoting Audible memberships and audiobooks. You can sign up as an affiliate through their partner platform, and then promote Audible through various marketing channels, such as websites, social media, or email marketing.
5. How much can I earn as an Audible affiliate?
The amount you can earn as an Audible affiliate varies depending on the number of referrals you make and the type of membership or audiobook purchased by your referrals. Audible offers different commission rates based on these factors.
6. Are there any requirements to join the Audible affiliate program?
Yes, there are certain requirements to join the Audible affiliate program. You need to have a website or an active online presence, comply with their affiliate terms and conditions, and be approved through their partner platform.
7. Can I make passive income with Audible?
Yes, it is possible to make passive income with Audible. Once you publish your audiobooks or establish your affiliate marketing channels, you can earn ongoing commissions or royalties from your audiobook sales or referrals, providing a potential source of passive income.
8. Are there any upfront costs involved in making money with Audible?
There may be some upfront costs involved in making money with Audible. For example, if you choose to become an audiobook narrator or producer, you may need to invest in quality recording equipment or hire a professional studio. Publishing your own audiobooks may also involve some production expenses. However, the potential returns can outweigh these initial costs.
9. Can I use Audible to monetize my existing content?
Audible provides opportunities to monetize your existing content, especially if you have written books or have valuable audio content. By converting your content into audiobooks and distributing them through Audible, you can reach a wider audience and generate income from your existing work.
10. Where can I find more information about making money with Audible?
You can find more information about making money with Audible on their official website. They provide detailed resources, guidelines, and frequently asked questions on topics such as becoming a narrator, publishing audiobooks, and participating in their affiliate program.
Jill is a passionate entrepreneur, blogger, and author who loves sharing her knowledge and expertise in the world of online business. With over a decade of experience in e-commerce and digital marketing, Jill has helped thousands of women achieve financial freedom and create successful online businesses from scratch.
Jill started her journey in the online business world as a freelance writer, quickly moving on to create her own blog and e-commerce store. She has since launched several successful digital products and courses, helping women across the globe take control of their financial future.
Jill is dedicated to sharing her experience and knowledge with other women who want to start their own online businesses and achieve financial independence. Her mission is to empower women to take control of their lives and become their own boss, allowing them to live life on their own terms.