So your business has a Facebook page, a Twitter account and even a Google+ page…but do you podcast?
Have you ever thought about adding a podcast to your marketing strategy? This is a fantastic way to reach a number of people that might not have been aware of you and your business. Starting up a podcast is easier than you might think. Other than a recording device, the most important aspect of starting up a podcast is coming up with pre-determined topics you want to talk about. Without at least an outline of material to talk about, you might start rambling off the topic or the dreaded “ahhhs” and “uhhhs” start coming out, which will quickly turn off listeners.
After you have come up with the topics, the next thing you will need is a recording device, obviously! But there is no need to go out and buy an expensive audio set up, you can simply use your phone to record your podcast. Make sure you are in an area that won’t have distractions and turn your phone to Airplane mode for the recording so that phone calls and texts will not be recorded.
Having someone co-host with you helps alleviate the nervousness you might get by being able to banter with them. Another great thing about a co-host is that they also can help keep you on track if you start rambling off topic. While there is also no minimum time limit for each podcast, try and stick with a general time length. If you usually record thirty minute podcasts, then going over or under by a few minutes won’t be too big of a deal. But if you happen to record one that is ninety minutes when your listeners are used to thirty minutes, it might turn them off. If you do have a ton of information on a topic, try breaking it up into a mini-series of podcasts or at least let your listeners know that this one will be longer than usual.
When you are all finished recording and are happy with it, all you have to do is publish it through to the web. Using iTunes is the most popular platform, but there are other options available. WordPress is another popular platform that also happens to be free. Do some research and find out which platform suits your needs and skill level.
So what are the benefits of adding a podcast into your marketing campaign? I’m glad you asked
- It is easy to download so your customers can listen to it at their convenience.
- It is one more way to personalize your brand to your customers.
- If you are doing a “How-to” session and giving instructions, a podcast allows them to work while listening instead of referencing a sheet of paper or computer.
- It’s a great way to reinforce topics discussed on your website, Facebook page or blog.
- It allows you to talk about subjects that would be too lengthy to post online.
Have you ever hosted a podcast? Do you listen to podcasts?
