I export the wave to a folder and then use my wave editor NCH to do the normalize. I also trim the count in and ending dead space.

If you are using a DAW, you might also want to look into using some mastering software packages to put some spark in the sound as well.

Ozone is one good package for doing just that.

You can find my music at:
www.herbhartley.com
Add nothing that adds nothing to the music.
You can make excuses or you can make progress but not both.

The magic you are looking for is in the work you are avoiding.