Podcasting Basics
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.
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.
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.
Podcasts will also help you develop relationships with your customer and prospective customers. Your customers will listen to your show, and will feel as though they can get to know you. As they continue to listen to your information, they will start to think of you as an expert in your particular field. You will become that person that they will go to for more information in that subject.
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.
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