The Basics of Podcasting
Podcasting has become the new internet marketing trend, much like blogging had the last few years. If you search the internet, you can find podcasts on all subjects- interviews, “how-to” information, and even audio blogs.
Podcasts take their name from the iPod, the popular Mp3 player created by Apple. As stated above, there are many types of podcasts to choose from, and it can be hard to give a single definition that fits all those types. Basically, a podcast is an audio file created with the intention of communicating some type of thoughts or information to the public.
Many business podcasts take on the form of a talk radio show. The website owner may interview guests that have knowledge on topics their target market is interested in, or the website owner may do all the talking their self.
What are some other reasons for having a podcast on your site? Importantly, it is a really good way to increase your website’s visitor traffic. People search podcast directories for new podcasts to listen to. Hopefully they will find yours and if they enjoy your podcast, will visit your website.
You may wish to use your podcast to promote affiliate links and products. If you sell an particular info product, you can discuss it on your podcast. If you are an affiliate for another company, you can review their product on your podcast, then tell your audience if they want more info they can get it from a page on your site that will redirect them through their affiliate link.
Not only can podcasts help you attract new customers and promote your products, they will help you develop relationships with your customers. When your customer listens to your podcast, they get to hear your voice and get a snapshot of your personality. As they hear you talk and present information, they will come to see you as an expert in your field. You will become their “go-to person” on the subject you specialize in.
A great way to make more money from your podcast is to accept advertising or sponsorships. If you play an advertisement (this would be similar to your local radio station’s ads), you charge. Or you can charge a fee to interview someone if they would like to promote their business on your podcast.
If you want to try your hand at podcasting, an easy way to get started is with Audio Acrobat. This is a monthly fee-based service that allows you to record audio with a computer microphone or with your telephone. The service allows you to create streaming audio players that you can post to your site as well as links that people can click to download your podcast straight to their computer or Mp3 player.
