Avoiding the Pitfalls: Common Podcasting Mistakes

Number one: reading a script. While I highly recommend writing a summary of what you want to cover on your podcast, there is no need to read word for word from a script. When most people try to read a script directly, they end up sounding like Ben Stein. “Bueller?” It is not entertaining and you will lose your audience before you even have a chance to get started. So unless you have extemporaneous acting or reading experience, it’s probably a good idea to forgo the script. An easy solution is to make a talking point list, note cards, or even a more detailed outline of what you intend to say in your podcast. As long as the format leaves room for improvisation, it will appear more friendly and conversational. It may take a few tries to get used to “improvising”, but it will sound much better. It’s still advisable to rehearse and edit your podcast whenever possible, not to the point where it sounds overly written or artificial.

Number two: sound. While not everyone can afford really skilled production values, it is important to look at least somewhat professional. This means investing in a good-quality microphone, headphones, and an editing program of some kind. However, this does not necessarily imply a large investment. The microphone and headphones can be had for a reasonable amount, and you can download a free program like Audacity that will allow you to edit your program. Audacity will allow you to create music tracks, edit coughs, “ums” or even parts of the podcast that you are not satisfied with. It’s also worth doing a sound check before spending 15 to 30 minutes recording a podcast that is unintelligible. Check that the microphone volume is adjusted correctly and that there is no background interference.

Number three: infrequent episodes. Nobody wants to subscribe to a show if they only tune in sporadically. Why? Mainly because it is difficult to enter and maintain interest in a program if it is not enough to keep you engaged with the content. At the very least, try to get shows to air on every other week, if not weekly. It’s true that some shows are only released on a monthly basis, but in general, the more frequently the show airs, the higher its ratings.

Number four: no call to action. It’s rare for a listener to find your podcast in the context of your site. Most people will likely come across your podcast through the podcast directory, so it’s important to make sure you include a call to action at the end of your podcast. The fact is, if you don’t provide a clear way for people to interact with you, they won’t.

Number five: no cover. This actually only applies when you submit your podcasts to the various podcast directories and podcatchers. iTunes, for example, allows album art and most of the time people don’t even take a second look at podcasts without it. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy, and you can even use your logo as the album art whenever it communicates something about the podcast.

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