Starting a Business Podcast to Grow Your Business

While most of us listen to podcasts for entertainment, they can also be used for informative and educational purposes. Since its inception in 2005, this media form has become hugely popular due to its versatility. Podcast listeners comprise nearly 57% of the US population. Due to its ability to create audience engagement, business owners, marketers, and entrepreneurs also look to capitalize on the popularity of the medium. Apart from influencing and encouraging your clients, this medium is much more affordable than any other marketing mechanism. Therefore, in this article, we will take you a detailed look at starting a business podcast for growing your business.       

Identify Your Audience and Topic  

Your first step toward starting a business podcast would be to decide your podcast’s topic. You must find a topic that can be explored in various aspects and focused enough to attract a specific audience. If you are looking to start a small business podcast, try to find a market that is still undiscovered on the podcast medium. This will lead to an audience who is looking for information. Also, make sure that you pick a topic on which you can speak for a long time in an informal yet engaging manner.  

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Select a Name 

To identify your audience and topic, you must pick an appealing name. You can either go for a descriptive title or come up with something catchy. Either way, your name must be recognizable for listeners looking for your topic.  

Select Your Format 

Podcasts have different formats. Solo shows are all about podcasters engaging directly with their audience. In the co-hosted format, you can share the mic with another presenter while you interact with a guest in an interview show. Regardless of the format, you must keep in mind that you explore your subject matter well.    

Develop Your Style  

Successful podcasters are known for their engaging style. Hence, you must try to develop your unique style. Since there are no scripts or teleprompters in this format, you can prepare a topic outline. Additionally, try to use a language that resonates with the listeners. Try to be authentic and speak about the things that you know. Interact with your listeners as you interact with close friends.  

Decide the Length 

Apart from the style, your podcast's length depends on your topic and your audience's demand. While most podcasts usually last for 20 to 45 minutes, there are listeners for five-minute podcasts and four-hour podcasts as well. Therefore, try to experiment and find out what works best for you. Since people will invest their time listening to you, try to make it worthwhile.   

Decide the Frequency 

How often you upload a podcast depends on your content. However, if you are starting a business podcast, you must post at regular intervals. Some podcasters also prefer to record a few episodes before they launch their channel. This helps them handle the initial pressure while sticking to their schedule.    

Get the Correct Equipment 

While you do not need a professional studio while starting a podcast, investing in high-quality equipment certainly benefits in the long run.  

Microphones are arguably the most important piece of equipment when it comes to podcasting. Therefore, compromising the mic quality will make your listeners think you are not serious about podcasting. Try to record in a quiet area, as it will reduce your editing time. Also, find a space with sound-absorbing materials like carpets, clothes, etc. 

Another piece of equipment you need to be careful about is the software used for recording and editing your podcasts. GarageBand is a popular name in this category and comes with every Apple laptop and tablet.    

Interview the Right Way  

If you are going for the interview format and inviting remote guests, you need to ensure the call quality. Additionally, you will need intuitive and conversational skills if you wish to elicit information from the guests. Therefore, try to build a rapport and make them comfortable while staying on track. A seasoned podcaster must also be ready to call out any guest’s comment or challenge their assertions when necessary.  

Share Your Podcast 

Now that you have developed a definitive style and recorded the podcast, it is time to share the product with your audience. However, you can make a few tweaks if you wish to come across as a serious podcast. For example, you can introduce each episode with a short voiceover. This adds personality and professionalism to your podcast. You may also use music and cover art to increase your podcast's character. 

Next comes the hosting part. While starting a podcast, new podcasters feel that they can upload their podcast directly to platforms like iTunes. However, they must create an account with any media host first. It is usually a subscription service that stores your files. Additionally, it also provides marketing tools, statistics, and analytics. Some popular media hosts include Libsyn and Buzzsprout.      

Read Also: Tips to Increase Your Website Conversion Rate Effectively 

Promote Your Podcast  

To promote your podcast, you can take the help of social media and e-mail. Announce the launch of your small business podcast in advance. This will help you in building an audience before you launch your podcast. You can also encourage new listeners to subscribe and leave reviews. This will increase your chances of being noticed and featured by iTunes.  

If you wish to get the most out of your podcast, try repurposing them on blogs and social media channels. You must also adapt according to the needs of your listeners and the way they respond to your content.  

Explore Additional Resources 

While podcasting may be difficult for newcomers, there are several resources that you can explore. Female podcasters can also find every piece of information from the women in the business podcast. There are several online podcast communities that can provide support and answer your questions regarding how to use a podcast. Some of them are:  

• The Podcast Movement Community 
• She Podcasts 
• Podcast Community 

Starting a business podcast helps you build relationships with your audience, opening doors for new opportunities. Additionally, it establishes you as a credible voice in your area of expertise. Therefore, by looking into the steps mentioned above, you can create a podcast to help grow your business.