The growing age of audio stories and podcasts proves the paramount importance of these kinds of content. It is next to the best medium to create an intimate connection with listeners and potential customers as well. When a person hears another person speaking, it helps to humanize the relationship with a personal approach that written content can’t always do. It helps in creating a better customer relationship with the podcast listeners. A growing tendency of listening to podcasts can be noticed as 51% of the total consumers listen to podcasts who are older than 12 years. It has been also revealed by the podcast statistics that 32% of the total American listeners listen to podcasts on a daily basis.
If you are wondering what is it all about and how to proceed with a podcast, here is everything you need to know:
What is a Podcast?
Podcasts are basically recording of audio sessions and discussions which are broadcasted over the web. As it is an audio file, it can be listened on the go or while doing work and does not require complete attention like reading or video content. The latest research shows that podcast listeners spend 5 hours on average every week. So it can be a great medium to reach out to potential customers and connect with them without even indulging. Podcasts are also budget-friendly and do not require a lot of investment to start with.
Different types of Podcast
Depending on the purpose and topic, the podcasts can be divided into three following categories.
1. Solo Podcast
These kinds of podcasts are the easiest to start with as it is presented as a monologue. Usually, a single person hosts the show and runs it based on different topics. Topics can range from news-related topics, questions and answers, audio stories, opinion-based ted talks, and many others. Seen from a technical standpoint, it is also a one-man job to do, which is convenient for a solo host.
2. Interview Podcast
In this case, one or two hosts interview the guests in the show. These podcasts always provide something new by featuring different guests on each episode. Creating such podcasts does not require a lot of groundwork. Basic research about the interviewee and your interviewing skills can create great content to listen to.
3. Multi-Host Podcast
This show consists of a more dynamic side as there are more than two hosts. Different hosts share varied opinion and perspectives which creates a sense of the debate and make the show more diverse to listen to. With more people in the debate, more ideas emerge and it gets easier for the creator to run the show without any hassle.
How to start with a Podcast?
With multiple podcast hosting ideas emerging every day, you might get a little confused how to start with. But hosting a podcast is not rocket science and it is never too late to start with a new idea. Yes, it definitely takes some time to cut through the noise of various content, but reaching out to the niche industry can be highly beneficial.
1. Provide previews
As the podcasts consist of multiple episodes, the listeners start listening to one with a lot of expectations. Just rolling your microphone with some motivational speech might work in some cases but the impact doesn’t last long. The best way to garner attention is from the listeners is by providing a preview. A preview of the format of your show helps the listeners find out what they are going to listen to on consecutive episodes.
2. Create an ideal Podcast
If you want your podcasts to garner maximum exposure, maintaining some ideal conditions can help to enhance them on a greater level.
a. Ideal frequency of publishing – The top 25 podcasts post one episode per week which is considered to be ideal for publishing. The next popular frequency is posted twice a week.
b. Ideal Podcast length – The ideal podcast length should not be more than 22 minutes since the listeners stay engaged on a podcast 22 minutes on average.
c. Best day to publish – 60% of the podcasts are published early on the week or middle of the week. So, the most popular days to publish a podcast are Tuesday and Wednesday.
3. Find Niche
Instead of reaching out to a broader audience all over the world perhaps you should find your niche who would actually like to listen to your content. A relevant target audience helps to gain more exposure.
4. Be entertaining
Hosting a podcast might sound difficult but it is all about being relaxed and having fun while interacting and interviewing your guest. If it is not entertaining enough, the listeners are not going to follow up on the next episodes.
What are the important types of equipment needed for podcasting?
A podcast is an audio-based recording and it definitely needs a microphone or recording device to provide listeners a complete experience. Better quality and clarity assure more listeners. You would also require headphones, audio editing software to give that final touch before publishing it. It is recommended to spend the bare minimum budget and do proper market research before buying any equipment.
1. USB Microphone
There are many kinds of USB microphones ranging from $70 to $250 which can be utilized to record. These mics are easy to use and most of them come with a plug-and-play system that does not even require additional software to be installed.
Recommended options
- Samson Q1U Dynamic USB Microphone
- Rode NT-USB Microphone
- Blue Yeti USB Microphone
- The Shure SM58
- RODE PROcaster Broadcast Dynamic Vocal Microphone
2. Enhancers (optional)
There is some additional equipment to provide more clarity to the audio quality.
Recommended options
- Sony ZX Series Stereo Headphones
- Zoom H1 Handy Portable Digital Recorder
- Pop Filter
3. Editing software
There is a lot of audio editing software available online that can help you to record and edit MP3 recordings. However, free software is recommended since it is budget-friendly and convenient.
Recommended options
- Audacity (Mac/PC)
- GarageBand (Mac)
- Adobe Audition (Mac/PC)
These are basic that you need to start with your own podcast project. After crafting successfully, you can think of outsourcing it for promotion and reach more audiences. Now that you are aware of the tips on how to create a successful Podcast, grab your equipment and go for it.
