Negosentro.com | Getting It Right the First Time Around: 7 Things You Should Know Before Starting a Podcast | Starting a podcast can be a great way to share unique insight into niche topics, meet others interested in the same things, and even generate some income once it gets off the ground. There are a lot of podcasts out there already, though, so the competition can be fierce for those who want to monetize their creations. Read on to find out about seven things everyone should know before starting a podcast to get the process started on the right foot.
- It’s Important to Have the Right Equipment
Having the right equipment is key because listeners won’t be interested if they have a hard time accessing the podcast or understanding its content. Don’t settle for less than the best. Find a service that offers professional Podcast Hosting, use a good computer with high-quality editing software, and purchase decent microphones, boom stands, and other recording equipment from reputable vendors.
- The Right Recording Software Makes All the Difference
Sound quality is as important as subject matter when it comes to determining whether podcasters will be able to hold listeners’ interest. There are plenty of options out there when it comes to recording and editing software. Those who have it in the budget should purchase professional-quality software instead of opting for free alternatives, as this will allow more control and offer better audio quality.
- Successful Podcasts Operate in a Clear Niche
The most successful podcasters are those who choose narrow topics in well-defined niche markets. Make sure the topic is specific enough to appeal to a distinct audience and jot down a list of subtopics that could be used to create different episodes. If the topic is too narrow, it will be difficult to come up with new content. If it’s too broad, it will be hard to keep the target audience interested.
- Podcasters Need to Understand their Audiences
Get a clear idea of who the ideal listener is. Listeners want to feel like podcasters are talking directly to them, so list some attributes of the ideal fan and target that imaginary person. Important attributes can include demographic factors like gender, age, and employment status, and more personal things like social life and goals.
- It’s Important to Have a Consistent Hosting Style
There are many ways to host a podcast. Podcasters can invite friends onto the show or plan to host each episode alone. They can schedule interviews or tell stories, choose an educational format, or a conversational one. Try to choose a hosting style that fits the topic and the intended audience and keep it consistent.
- Podcasts Need to Be Promoted
Creating a successful podcast doesn’t end when hosts stop recording. They’ll also need to market their podcasts prior to launch and as they build their audiences. Make sure the podcast has consistent branding and values and use those to inform other marketing decisions like what graphics to use, how to write show descriptions, and where to promote it.
- Show Notes Help Promote the Podcast
Writing down show notes, or even transcribing the entire podcast, makes it easier to advertise effectively. It helps with SEO and encourages listeners to get engaged online, attracting more attention to the podcast. Show notes are also a great place to advertise affiliate links.
The Bottom Line
Getting a podcast started can be hard. It takes a serious investment of both time and money. If novice podcasters follow the tips above, they’ll set themselves up for success down the road.
