Over the last few years, customers have been spoilt for choice when it comes to ways of consuming content. No longer does the consumer have to wait for press releases and news websites to keep up to date with their favourite company or customer. The rise of Social Media networks like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram have played a big part in changing the way people can consume content. Over the last decade, YouTube grew to become the second largest search engine, empowering companies and creators to develop video content targeted at their subscribers or anyone with the same interests. Fast forward to 2021, and podcasts have become one of the best forms of consuming content and learning about businesses.
Whether it’s during a commute to work or relaxing at home; podcasts have become the ideal tool for companies to showcase their brand and partners in an engaging conversation tailored for specific target audiences. Compared to other forms, content like video and podcasts offer less hassle, stress and privacy because the presenter and the guest don’t have to constantly look and act perfect on camera; they can loosen up and be more sincere over a cup of coffee and have a conversation with a set of microphones. Podcasts are more versatile and can be consumed anywhere in the world whereas video can have restrictions. The investment from Spotify, Apple iTunes and other audio streaming service providers has also helped to stimulate the growth of podcasts, boosting awareness and reaching wider audiences. With the evolution of podcasts, we have put together a list of 5 things to consider before you start recording.
Planning
Before any recording takes place, it is important that the interviewer or company hosting the podcast defines the goals and objectives of the podcast. Following this, a brainstorming session needs to take place discussing the key topics the podcast needs to cover to meet the objectives. It is also advised to have a structure and script laid out to help with the flow, to stay on topic and on time.
A podcast presenter needs to be chosen followed by a shortlist of companies to be approached to do the podcast interviews with. If multiple episodes are being planned, it is important to have guest speakers confirmed before any of the recordings commence. That way the whole series of podcasts can be recorded in the desired time frame and launched in accordance. It is also worth having one or two guests as backup in case any guests cancel.
Find your USP
It’s no secret that as more and more podcasts emerge, it is important to stand out from the crowd. Finding your unique selling point is crucial to help gain traction and retain your audience. Whether is your presentation style, questions, guests, topics covered, interaction with the audience, competitions etc, it is vital to identify what others are doing and how to improve on that and be authentic.
Understand your audience
Who are we trying to target? Where are they located? Why should they listen in? What message are we trying to convey? How are we going to measure the success from our audience? These are some of the questions you should know the answers to. With podcasts, it’s about building a community, and knowing what the target audience want to keep them engaged.
Setup
The podcast setup is just as important as the podcast itself. You need to make sure you have good quality microphones, headsets, recording and editing platform. The podcast presenter and guest need to ensure they are in a quiet room that doesn’t echo, with no background noise, and a good internet connection/WIFI. Audio testing is also an important part of the setup, to check quality and audio levels.
Consistency is key to success
Once you have recorded the first series of your podcast, it is important to look forward to the future and start planning on the next series. Consistency is key to keeping your audience engaged and coming back for more. Podcasts present a brilliant opportunity to not only build communities but entice new business opportunities.
For more information on how we can support you launch your own podcast, please do get in touch.