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.
The term “podcast” comes from the MP3 player created by Apple, the iPod. A podcast is an audio file that has been made with the intention of communicating information to the public.
A large percentage of business podcasts are designed to be similar to a radio show. The podcaster may interview guests that have knowledge on their particular website topic, or the podcaster might go solo and do all the talking themselves.
You may be wondering about the reasons to start a podcast. First of all, it is a great way to increase traffic to your site. People love podcasts and they search podcast directories and iTunes for new podcasts to listen to. They may stumble upon yours, without ever knowing your site existed. If they enjoy your podcast, they will want to check out your site.
You can also use your podcast to promote products and affiliate links. For example, if you have an information product about dog breeding, you can talk about it on your podcast. If you are an affiliate for a dog biscuit manufacturer, you can provide a review of the product and tell your audience that if they want more information they can to a page on your site that will redirect them to your affiliate link with the company.
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.
