Smart business owners are always trying to come up with new ways to market their products and expand their reach. Just think, in the last 20 years or so we’ve seen old-school television and radio technology convert to commercials online before watching YouTube videos and radio frequencies that can transmit worldwide using satellite technology. Back in the day, webmasters could build large websites by simply creating lots of incoming links and maybe buying a banner ad or two across the web. That started changing in the early 2000’s when we all saw new marketing opportunities open up thanks to websites like Facebook, SoundCloud and YouTube getting launched. Today, successful website owners market their websites in several different ways including social media, banner ads, pay per click, and even podcasts.
It doesn’t matter whether you’ve ever done any type of radio show before or not, anyone can host their own podcast. Some websites like RedCircle will even provide you with everything needed to start and host a podcast. These types of radio shows can be great to expand your businesses reach and exposure. Podcasts can be about literally anything in your niche: news, how to, general discussion, or anything else! As your podcast becomes more popular you can even choose to sell advertising space on it just like a traditional radio station. Starting a new podcast is pretty simple if you have a computer, microphone and good internet connection. However, there are some other important tips you should keep in mind to sound polished, professional and knowledgeable as an online radio host.
Begin every show with an introduction and brief synopsis of your guests – It is often considered traditional radio etiquette to give a quick rundown as to which guests you’ll have on your show, plus a small background of each. Hosts should also mention if there is a specific purpose for the guest’s appearance.
Your voice, pacing, and words are most important – Always remember that your radio audience can’t see you. Physical appearance, movement, and eye contact are all non-existent when it comes to hosting your own podcast. These factors are what usually makes the most impact on your message. That being said, your speech needs tonal variety in addition to a calm pace.
Always be prepared – Just like any other job you might do, the more prepared you are for it, the better it will go. For example, when you begin an interview with a guest, rather than asking the guest for their background information, show the audience you’re prepared by quickly providing listeners with introduction and background details on your own.
Try to avoid rambling – Rambling is a clear sign of nervousness. Anytime we’re in an unfamiliar situation and feel nervous, we tend to ramble. As a host it’s extremely important that you’re able to control this. Remember to stay on point, say what you need to say and always allow time for your guest to answer questions.
Finish with a good conclusion – Once you’re finished with the show, use an example like the following: Well, we’re all out of time for today and we would like to thank our guests and producers for making this show possible. Join us for another edition of (name of show) when we will be joined by (name of your guests). Thanks for joining us and we will talk to you all later. Good bye everyone.”
Remember that even though running your own podcast can be a serious business adventure, it can also be fun and exciting. It can be a great new marketing route to expand business reach and awareness, but also gives you the chance to reach your followers on a more personal level as well.
