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Podcasting Your Way to Career Success
A blog was the cutting-edge marketing and communications tool for an
enterprising executive. But that was yesterday. Today, having your own
podcast is the new “new thing.” Podcasts, or downloadable audio files
that anyone can listen to on a MP3 player or computer, are a powerful
way to market your ideas, views, news, and, of course, expertise in
your field. Best of all, a podcast is a powerful networking tool for
creating a community of customers, clients and contacts, also known as
fans.
Setting up a podcast is relatively inexpensive and easy to do. Many
audio companies market podcasting packages with the basics you’ll need
to create your “home studio”: a microphone, mixer, monitors and audio
interface for your computer. After your audio “show” is produced,
export your podcast as a MP3. You will need a blogging tool (like
Blogger or Moveable Type) that contains links to your MP3 audio files.
Then you can use FeedBurner to create an RSS feed to publish your
podcast.
Smart podcasters looking for the most impact should get into it now,
while its novelty is on the rise. Here are 10 ways to make your podcast
stand out, build your visibility and accelerate career success.
1. Get a Great Name for Your Podcast.
Why is a name so important, you may be wondering? After all, a podcast
is something you listen to, not read. The first way many people will
find out about your podcast is its name when they read a podcast list
in iTunes or other podcast or blog directory. Having a catchy name will
make your podcast stand out and tweak interest. Great names are fresh
and memorable and set the tone for the podcast.
2. Have a unique podcast concept or point of view..
In order to stand out and be listened to regularly, you need to
represent a fresh perspective: a personality and discussion that is
different from what everyone else is saying. Focus on what’s going on
in your industry or the world - what the new trends are, what the new
products and services are – anything that you think is important for
people to know. Your podcast is your chance to sell your USP – a
different idea than what everyone else is saying and to show your
experience and what you know.
3. Have a “branded” format
The ultimate in podcasting is to have a “branded” element to your
“show” that makes it unforgettable. Notice how talk shows on television
or radio have a predictable format with a segment on X followed by Y
and Z? Often these segments are “branded” like Bill Maher’s “New
Rules,” David Letterman’s “Top 10 List,” or The Colbert Report’s “The
Word of the Day.”
4. Think effect, then cause. (Not cause and effect) What
is the point of producing a podcast if you don’t have an impact on your
audience? Or, God forbid, if no one is listening? The best way to do
that is to approach your podcast concept from the audience’s
perspective. What kind of “radio” show format and content would your
listeners find relevant and interesting? What is the best way to
present your business or your ideas to capture their interest? What
would make your audience laugh? What would make them keep tuning in to
each podcast?
5. Have a distinct “sound” and “voice.”
How you say something is as critical as what you say. Your voice is
like your DNA; it is unique and recognizable. On your podcast, your
voice can be a powerful instrument that impacts your audience
positively or negatively, so make sure it works in your favor. If you
are not happy with the sound, pitch, or cadence of your voice, work
with it. Record yourself on some practice podcasts and play it back...
continue...
More about Catherine Kaputa
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