If you are a business that is looking to launch a podcast, then it is important to learn from the successes and failures of other companies who have made the step into this form of media.
As modern marketing evolves and includes new potential revenue streams through social media and digital content platforms, podcasting is becoming increasingly popular.
Podcasting experts LRB are giving you the necessary advice to help you get started – and the common errors that are made when setting up a podcast.
Common podcast errors made by businesses
Starting a podcast is exciting, and can help grow your business, but these are the common mistakes which are made.
In each section we highlight how you can avoid making them!
Plan properly with the right partner
Don’t just jump into a podcast without knowing what your plan is. Inconsistency and a lack of structure are common problems with new podcasts.
TIP – Create a content calendar and identify your target audience before recording the first episode. Working with an experienced podcast production company can help provide a detailed strategy.
Poor audio and video quality
A quick way that views and listeners lose interest is with the use of audio and video equipment which does not meet the expectations of your audience.
TIP – Invest in a good microphone and video equipment. Make sure that you record in a quiet, echo-free space.
Overspending at the start of making a podcast
Podcasting can be an exciting new tool that can be a great revenue stream for your business. However, getting the highest quality equipment, studio, and advertising might not be the best use of money when you are getting started.
TIP – If this is your first foray into the world of podcasting, then keep it as simple as possible. Outsourcing to a content production company can help reduce costs.
Inconsistent schedule
Unreliable and erratic posting will disengage the audience, and many new podcasts do not stick to a schedule. This confuses the audience and reduces retention numbers.
TIP – At the start of your podcast, it is important to set a realistic publishing schedule and stick to it. Use tools like schedulers to plan releases.
Having poor branding for the podcast
Strong branding attracts listeners and sets the tone for your podcast – but many marketing companies do not focus on creating unique branding for the podcast. The content should have new images, logos, and a strong call to action.
TIP – During pre-production meetings, ensure that the branding is consistent and is suitable for everywhere your business could be seen – as well as on other media platforms and social media.
Monetising incorrectly
Premature monetisation efforts can alienate listeners and undermine content quality. Podcasts are good for modern revenue streams – but it shouldn’t be the only focus.
TIP – Do not push sales immediately, as this will disengage the audience. Offer content that is appealing and digestible. Once you have built a following or have produced impactful content, then you can look at adverts and promoting your products/services.
Bad editing
If the content is poorly edited when it comes to the final product, viewers and listeners will turn it off and they will be very hard to win back.
TIP – Use an outsourced production company to avoid poor editing. You only get one chance at a first impression, so make sure you leave it in the hands of experts.
Not considering the impact of SEO
Without visibility, your podcast may struggle to reach potential listeners. Many companies who launch podcasts view SEO as an afterthought – and doing this will make it harder to increase audience viewership and participation.
TIP – Use SEO best practices with the use of keywords and internal linking to expand the reach of your podcasts. This is important for anything you publish on your website – not just your podcasts.
Neglecting audience interaction
Whether it is comments, call ins, or messages on social media, many podcasts ignore their audience. As soon as you start reaching the intended viewer, do everything you can to keep then engaged.
TIP – Encourage listeners and viewers to leave comments and reviews – and involved Q&A segments and customer comments where possible.
Is the content original?
Podcasting is something all business should consider – but as thousands of new ones are launched every year, the market is becoming crowded. This is why many of them do not stand out anymore.
TIP – Although it is important to use best practices and avoid common mistakes, new podcasters should try and find their niche and keep the content as fresh and unique as possible. Whether this is the subject matter, new segments, or something more industry-specific – find your audience and promote the content using all of the tips above.
Hiring a professional videographer or podcast service who knows how to deliver impactful content is vital.
Our clients at LRB have seen the benefits of what we offer and how we can give you the best possible podcast series for your business.
Call 07741 487245 to speak to our CEO Luke to learn more, or email hello@lrb-media.co.uk for more information.