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These words are music to my ears. When I started my podcast, The Introvert Entrepreneur, back in the summer of 2010, I had no idea what direction it would go. I just knew it was fun, it was a great way to connect with interesting people, and it stretched my technical and listening skills.
My podcast has become one of my biggest client lead generators. It's not because I do a lot of self-promotion or talking about coaching during the show; in fact, I do very little. Instead, I create content that brings value and resonates with listeners.
From an introvert perspective, podcasting has proven to be an amazing way to make meaningful connections with a wide range of influencers and colleagues, all without going to energy-draining networking events, chattering away constantly on social media, or feeling like I was stalking anyone.
The growth potential of podcasting (and by extension, its influence on consumers) isn't reason enough to start a podcast. It's not a bright shiny object to grab and dabble with... at least, not if you want it to yield any sort of results. Based on the number of questions I get about producing a podcast, I know there are lots of you who want to explore its potential.
I think of podcasting as on-demand niche radio without the spotty audio reception and annoying long commercial breaks. You can access any show you want, 24/7, in your car, at the gym, or while walking the dog. There are podcast shows covering every topic you could possibly imagine, from quilting to Disney, sports to comedy, music, politics, and yes, coaching. Most podcast shows produce regular content, publishing new episodes everywhere from once a day to once a month (or less - not recommended). Show lengths vary from five minutes to an hour or longer. Some have sponsors or advertisers, many are commercial free.
"a form of digital media that consists of an episodic series of audio, video, digital radio, PDF, or ePub files subscribed to and downloaded through web syndication or streamed online to a computer or mobile device. The word is a portmanteau of '(i)Pod' and 'broadcast.'" (source)
Deciding to work with a coach is a very personal decision. It doesn't matter what kind of coach a client is seeking; it's a relatively close relationship that relies on safety, trust, and connection. Podcasts can facilitate and accelerate that connection, even before you ever talk on the phone or meet in person. Podcasts are intimate; hearing your voice gives listeners insight into your personality, who you are, and what your presence is like. It makes it easier for them to imagine having a conversation with you. Potential clients already feel like they know you at least on a surface level, which is more than they would know just from your website or blog posts. Video is great for making that personal connection, too. But to me, it's higher maintenance, and it's not as flexible and portable (I'm not going to watch a video while driving, folding laundry, or gardening).
I admit: I'm biased. I think podcasting for your business (or for fun) is pretty cool. My pro list is long, the con list is short. But the items on the con list are major considerations that are hard to talk yourself into if you're not fully committed.
What do I want to communicate?
Are you a curator, archaeologist, or evangelist? Do you aggregate info to share, do you dig into a topic for discovery, or do you have a particular viewpoint want to promote? You might do one of these, or a combination. (Thanks to Dave Stachowiak of Coaching for Leaders for that framework.)
What show format best fits me and my brand?
Consider the average length of episodes, interviews or solo, multiple hosts, different segments, scripted or improvised, video or audio only, and music. You can experiment and mix some of it up, but try to find a formula that works and stick close to it.
How can I leverage the content?
Will the interviews and content form the basis of a book or information product? Will you make transcripts available? How else can you use the content?
How much time and energy am I willing to put into producing my podcast?
Consider the degree to which you want to do-it-yourself, or if you need to contract with a producer, transcriber, show note writer, etc. Will the time you invest justify the return, taking into account a long sales cycle?
This post is intended as an introduction, to give you food for thought and help you discern if podcasting might be a good fit for you and your business. Google "podcasting for business" to continue your learning and research. And here's more for your consideration: Part Two: 15 Best Practices for When You're Starting a Podcast.
Do you have a podcast? If so, what tips or insights can you share with those who are thinking about it? And if you're in the research phase, what's motivating you to start a show? Please share in the comments!
Beth L. Buelow, PCC, is the author of THE INTROVERT ENTREPRENEUR (Tarcher Perigee/Penguin Random House), which was named one of the 100 Best Business Books of 2015 by Inc.com. She's also a certified coach, corporate trainer, and professional speaker. Since founding her coaching company, The Introvert Entrepreneur, along with her popular podcast of the same name, Beth has established herself as a go-to expert for introvert entrepreneurs around the world. Follow her on Twitter @introvertcoach or visit her website at theintrovertentrepreneur.com
Susan Cain taught us the value of being Quiet. Now, The Introvert Entrepreneur takes the next step and shows us how introverts can channel their inner quiet in order to thrive in the world of business
An introvert trying to be a fake extrovert is just that: a fake extrovert. The Introvert Entrepreneur takes a strengths-based approach to being a successful entrepreneur, while also helping you deal with the particular roadblocks you may encounter when building a business.
Beth Buelow has established herself as The Introvert Entrepreneur to a growing tribe of thousands of followers and fans. A professional speaker and certified coach, Beth has coached dozens of introverted clients, trained hundreds, and spoken to thousands, championing introvert strengths and establishing her expertise in entrepreneurship, communication, and leadership. Her extremely popular podcast, "The Introvert Entrepreneur," features interviews with well-known and emerging Introvert Entrepreneurs. Since its launch in August 2010, the 50+ podcast episodes collectively have been downloaded more than 1.6 million times.
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