Podcasting has become quite a popular creative medium over the past few years and continues to grow. This audio-based programming is a great way for creators to share news or insights, tell stories, or connect with listeners in other ways. Additionally, it can be a good option for entrepreneurs and established enterprises to attract customers and grow their businesses. To do that, however, businesses must produce high-quality podcast content by following the right steps.
1. Pick the format and genre
One of the key podcasting tips is to pick the podcast type or format that is feasible and able to accommodate the growth requirements of the business.
Solo podcasting
This format is good for beginners, as it is simple to set up. Here, a single person speaks to the audience. This format is good for business owners or entrepreneurs who want to retain the rights to their content. One can always opt for this format if they do not know or want to bring another person on board to host their show.
Multi-host podcasts
Here, multiple hosts get together to discuss generic or niche topics. This type of podcast encourages organic conversation between hosts. It can be engaging for the listener, especially if the podcast delivers good energy and host chemistry.
Interview podcasts
This common format consists of interviews with people relevant to a specific topic or niche that the podcast covers. Here, too, the host can retain all their rights, like a solo creator, but also get to chat with guests to give their listeners some variety.
Along with choosing a format, one must choose a genre. To create a successful podcast for one’s business, one must choose a genre they understand. One can just do their research, pick a genre, and stick with it, or they can try exploring different genres to find out what works best. Each genre appeals to different listeners. Comedy, fiction, entertainment, history, education, science, news, crime, and sports are common podcast genres.
2. Get the necessary podcast equipment
Podcast equipment, including software, will allow one to record, edit, and upload audio files. The most important tools are microphones, headphones, recording software, and a camera. If one is new to podcasts, they can always start with affordable and beginner-friendly equipment and upgrade later when the show gains more traction. On the other hand, businesses willing to splurge on podcast equipment and software can invest in gear like mic arms, lighting, audio mixers, and an audio interface to offer a better auditory experience to the listeners.
3. Identify the target listeners
A business can get the right hosts, choose a good topic, and start running a unique podcast, but still not achieve the success they want if they do not get the kind and number of listeners they want. This is why identifying the ideal listeners and then targeting them is one of the key strategies to make successful podcasts for businesses. Any business must determine who they are talking to so that the message is received by those who are ready to receive it. To get started, one must determine the age, interests, location, general income level, and hobbies of the ideal listeners. Narrowing down the target demographics will help the business fine-tune the podcast to their listeners’ interests. So, when any target listener tunes in, they will enjoy the podcast and even share it with others.
4. Set up the premise
Once one has a fair idea regarding the genre and the ideal audience, one can think of the premise, which will be explained in the podcast profile description. Here, one must determine the reason for creating the podcast and write the show’s description accordingly. The description can be a short paragraph that tells potential listeners why they should tune in and what they can expect to hear when they listen.
5. Think of an apt name
A unique yet simple and appropriate podcast name is how businesses can start building an audience for their podcast. The name should be easy to remember. The show’s name should also indicate what the podcast is about so it does not deceive or drive away potential listeners.
6. Reserve social media handles
Today, a podcast will not get enough attention if not advertised. This is where social media comes in. With the help of these platforms, one can market their business podcast for free. To create pages, however, one must quickly reserve social media handles on apps like Instagram, X, and TikTok using the podcast’s name.
7. Sign up with a podcast hosting platform
Listeners rely on a handful of popular platforms to access their favorite podcasts. So, any business that wants to start building an audience for their podcast should sign up with these hosting platforms and upload all the content there. These platforms host the show’s RSS feed, providing listeners updates regarding new episodes and uploads. A few platforms that offer free or low-cost hosting features for shows are Libsyn, Spotify for Podcaster, RedCircle, and Buzzsprout. Signing up with a podcast hosting platform is also how businesses can monetize their podcasts over time.
8. Make at least three episodes
Before the show goes live, the business must have at least three episodes ready. When the podcast is up, listeners would have more than one episode, typically an introduction to the show, to see if they find the content interesting. Realizing a few episodes together can hook listeners and boost downloads, which helps the show rank higher on the hosting app.