When it comes to podcasting, the competition is fierce--more than four million fierce on Spotify alone. In fact, podcasting has been great for Spotify. How can you stand out? You just have to keep evolving to break through the ever-changing noise.
Of course, it can be hard to know where to start when it comes to fine-tuning your podcast efforts. One must-do I recommend is tracking your metrics so you have a basic understanding of your numbers. That way, you can tell if a new strategy is moving the needle in the right direction.
In terms of podcasting tactics to try in 2023, try any or all of the following ideas. They could mean the difference between doubling or tripling your listenership and falling out of vogue.
When it comes to podcasting, the competition is fierce--more than four million fierce on Spotify alone. In fact, podcasting has been great for Spotify. How can you stand out? You just have to keep evolving to break through the ever-changing noise.
Of course, it can be hard to know where to start when it comes to fine-tuning your podcast efforts. One must-do I recommend is tracking your metrics so you have a basic understanding of your numbers. That way, you can tell if a new strategy is moving the needle in the right direction.
In terms of podcasting tactics to try in 2023, try any or all of the following ideas. They could mean the difference between doubling or tripling your listenership and falling out of vogue.
1. Polish it to near-pro quality.
Thanks to readily available and constantly improving equipment, tech, and systems, you don't have to be a professional podcaster to sound like one. If you haven't invested in any podcast upgrades, now is the time.
I recommend looking beyond just ordering new headphones if you want to significantly improve your show quality. For instance, think about how your guests sound during interviews. We've all listened to a podcast where the host sounds crisp and the guest sounds terrible. It makes for an unpleasant listening experience, but this is starting to be addressed. I was recently reading about providers like SquadCast, which helps with this issue by saving recordings at the source, as well as in the cloud. Since they're recorded at the source, the guest's audio comes across crystal-clear, as if the host and guest were in the same room.
Another simple-to-use tech comes from Wavve. The product helps you create audiogram snippets for social media highlights and trailer distribution. You'll put forth a pristine, pro image even if you're a podcast newbie. Remember: You don't have to put your savings into giving your podcast a massive facelift to reap significant rewards. Focus on just a few little things and you might be surprised at the difference in quality you get.
2. Name and claim your niche.
Has the angle of your podcast changed from episode one? That's OK! But you do want to claim your spot among the competition. A good plan is to identify your podcasting subject niche so you can truly own it.
Take my podcast as an example. Between 2013 and 2020, I fine-tuned everything from my format to my themes. Through trial and error, I discovered the niche that worked best for me was sharing business lessons. Not everyday lessons, mind you, but lessons that were truly intriguing and even a little unexpected.
You may have somewhat of a niche right now. I challenge you to double down on it. Find a cranny that you can claim in the pod-iverse. Then, do your best to become the go-to expert of that space.
3. Snag fascinating, passionate storytellers as guests.
Even the most engaging podcaster needs to spice things up now and then. One method is by hosting guests with compelling stories. A riveting guest speaker can ramp up the banter and offer viewpoints that your show might not have touched on before.
Edison Research reveals that nearly three-quarters of podcast listeners are learners. They listen to podcasts with the hope of improving their mental agility. Inviting guests with clever messages helps you nab a reputation for being a never-miss, entertain-your-brain podcast.
How can you encourage people to star on your future podcast episodes? Go for the low-hanging fruit. This includes asking your colleagues, friends, peers, and mentors. I suggest offering them something in return, like the ability to discuss their book, website, or product. And make sure that the folks you choose are decent communicators. They don't have to be master public speakers, but they should be able to take a verbal cue and run with it.
4. Include an audience engagement component.
Maybe you think of podcasting as a one-way kind of platform. However, podcasting can be a two-way street between you and your audience members.
Consider the possibility of collecting questions from listeners on your social media platform. After receiving the questions, you can determine which ones to ask an upcoming guest.
When listeners feel like they have a hand in your programming, they'll be more likely to stay attuned to every word. This will be good for your metrics and for any advertisers you work with as well. So be creative with ways to help your audience participate. From giveaways to live podcast polls, there are tons of tactics to encourage feedback and grow your listener base.
It won't be long until 2023 rolls around. When it does, make sure your podcast is ready to ring in the new year with a fresh, appealing style.
BY JOEL COMM, AUTHOR AND SPEAKER@JOELCOMM
No comments:
Post a Comment