From the very beginning, it seemed like podcasting would take over the world. In 2004, the first podcast ever was posted online. Just a year later, Oxford named “podcast” as the word of the year. By the end of the decade, there were more than 25,000 different podcasts available on iTunes. Today, there are more than 700,000 podcasts available from every corner of the world.
There are podcasts on every subject from famous criminal cases to voice acting. Marketing is also a frequent podcasting subject. However, what many people fail to realize is that a podcast can also be used as an effective marketing tool. We’re going to show you how podcasting can help you with your lead generation efforts.
Why are Podcasts good for Business?
The recent increase in mobile usage is one of the main reasons why podcasts are so successful. Almost two-thirds of podcast consumers listen to their favorite shows on mobile devices. Of course, the independent spirit of the format can also be attributed to its success. People simply like supporting independent entrepreneurs.
Podcasts allow modern entrepreneurs to make podcasting a part of their marketing strategy and target their audience with content they want to consume. In turn, this allows them to connect with their audience on a deeper level. Recent research suggests that 53% of podcast listeners pay attention to commercials and recommendations from their favorite shows.
When used right, a podcast can be a powerful asset to your business. Before we talk about how to generate more leads with a podcast, let’s see what you need to start a successful podcast on your own.
What You Need to Start a Podcast
Picking a niche and name are the first things you need to do when starting a podcast but that part is up to you and we won’t get into it. You can skip this part if you already have a podcast. But if you don’t, here’s a list of things you need to buy and prepare in order to record a podcast:
1. Decent Microphone
Nowadays, you don’t need to spend a fortune on studio equipment to start a podcast. In essence, you only need a good microphone and with some editing, you can have more than a decent-sounding podcast. When it comes to microphones, there are hundreds of models out there, but we recommend you go with a USB microphone to avoid buying additional equipment.
2. Audio Editing Software
You need a good piece of audio editing software if you want your podcast to sound polished and professional. Unlike a microphone, which will cost you a decent amount, you can get good audio editing software free of charge. For instance, you have Audacity, powerful editing software used by many professionals that’s open-source and completely free.
3. Hosting Website
Hosting podcasts on your website is always a possibility. However, uploading too many episodes on your website might slow the website down. That’s why you should look for an alternative hosting option. Many people use SoundCloud to host their podcasts. The website is easy to use and has more than 175 million users every month.
Lead Generation with Podcasting
Now that you know what you need to actually start a podcast, there’s no reason not to do it. Let’s see what you need to do to increase your lead generation rates with your podcast:
1. Use the Power of CTA
When it comes to generating leads, a call-to-action will be your most effective tool. Every CTA should be different and consistent with the episode theme. By pointing your listener base to relevant content you will motivate them to find out more about the subject on their own.
Where to place the CTAs is crucial. Research has shown that only 3% of people will listen to a podcast from begging to end. Most people usually skip the introduction in an effort to bypass any promotions. That’s why you need to place one CTA within the first minute and one within the last minute.
2. Address You Consumers’ Problems
Your customer base probably experiences similar problems with your product or service. A podcast gives you a great opportunity to address those problems and help your audience members overcome them.
You can even show how your product helped you overcome your problems and how it can solve their problems too. But make sure you’re not sounding too “salesy” while you’re talking about your product. Focus on solving your customers’ problems.
3. Invite Customers as Guests
Calling your audience members onto your show is not only a great way to build connections with your guests but with your audience as a whole. By talking with your audience members publically, you’ll be demonstrating to the rest of your audience that you’re approachable and relatable.
Plus, you can find potential partners. You’ll probably have a good number of business executives and CEOs in your audience. Studies suggest that 16% of podcast listeners make more than $150,000 yearly. That means that there will be plenty of interesting guests to invite onto your podcast.
Final Thoughts
In less than two decades, podcasting has taken over the world. Podcasting is easier than you can imagine. You just need a PC, microphone, and an Internet connection, and you can start leveraging the power of podcasting and using it to boost your lead generation efforts.
The most important aspect of podcasting is your content. Your stories need to be engaging and disruptive if you want to get noticed. Your main goal is to get as much attention as possible and to position yourself as a leader in your industry. Start planning your first podcast right now.
We hope you found our content interesting and helpful. What’s your favorite podcast? Do you have any experience in podcasting? Share your thoughts with us by leaving a comment in the section below.
