Friday Focus: Getting Started With Podcasting

This week on Friday Focus we took a look at some basics to get you and your business started on podcasting. It's a great way to add another layer to your online branding, and can be fun and easy to do! The notes for this  stream are available here and below is the catch up for the stream.

Feeling inspired to get stuck in, well then, here are some tips and advice for starting a podcast.
1. Know Your Topic.
Your podcast should be on something you are knowledgeable on and also enjoy. Those listening will be able to hear it in if you're not and that won't build the audience's trust and they probably won't return.
2. Get The Appropriate Gear.
To be clear, we are not suggesting go out and spend £100s on microphones and mixing desks, but have the right equipment for you. We looked at Anchor during the stream, maybe you want to invest in a better microphone to improve sound quality that the one you have in your phone. Sound quality and ease is important, therefore having the appropriate equipment is key. Maybe down the line you will want to invest in more advanced, expensive products but for now, just ensure you have appropriate, decent basic equipment.
3. Plan Your Format.
Your format needs to run between every podcast, think of it as another type of branding. Your listeners will expect to here A,B and C every week. Even the podcasts that seem like just a casual chat will have some form of planning behind them.
4. Consistency.
Similar to plan your format, but consistency is important particularly with time. Though there's no rule to how long a podcast should be, try keep your podcasts a similar length. If I know the episodes are normally 30 minutes long, then I can listen to that on my 35 minute commute. You suddenly post an episode 45 minutes then suddenly I don't have time to listen to the whole thing. This can cause annoyance to your listeners.
5. Have Fun.
If you are having it'll come across to your viewers. This is your podcast so have fun talking about a topic you're passionate about this could be anything from sports to sandwiches. Those listening what to hear about the topic so make sure you are passionate! There's no point doing a podcast based on what you think people want to hear on a topic, deliver the message you want people to hear. Have fun with whatever your subject is!

So these are some extra tips for your podcasting journey, do you think you'll get started after our stream? Let us know so we can listen in!

Next week's stream on the 29th will be Getting Started With Video Editting, another really great tool for your business to adapt. See you next week!