The 3 Crucial Factors to Consider Before Starting a Podcast
I'm a horrible salesperson for my agency. I was a speaker at an event for real estate agents where I told them NOT to start a podcast.
The perfect way to build a business
Actually, it was a way to get their attention before getting real about producing long-form content.
My goal is to make sure your long-form content (in my case, podcasting) works for your business. Builds your brand, and builds your bottom line.
So before you venture down the road of long-form content, I have three things you need to consider. These factors will help you build a successful podcast that will captivate your target audience and help you achieve your goals.
1. Identify Your WHY
The first factor to consider is your WHY. You'll need to understand why you want to start a podcast and dig deep to identify the underlying motivations. Your WHY will drive you past episode 10, a critical podcasting benchmark. For some reason, episode 10 seems to be the turning point that either makes people quit or pushes them to keep going. So, find your WHY to stay motivated and continue producing engaging content.
2. Define Your GOAL
After you figure out your WHY, you will need to establish the GOAL of your podcast. Your GOAL is different from your WHY. While your WHY is more philosophical and rooted in your values, your GOAL focuses on the return on investment of your time and effort in podcasting. Ask yourself whether you're aiming to build a network of people in your community, expand your customer base, or become an influencer in your field. Be specific about your goal and create a clear path to achieve it.
3. Understand Your TARGET Audience
The last crucial factor to consider is your TARGET audience. Defining your target audience might seem basic, but it is vital for your podcast's success. Be crystal clear about whom you want to listen to your podcast and create an ideal avatar to help you achieve your goal. Give your avatar a name, a personality, and map out their imaginary day-to-day life. Understand their pains, joys, and most significant challenges to create content that resonates with them. Knowing your audience will allow you to design episodes that cater to their needs and interests.
In conclusion, before starting a podcast, please make sure that you have a solid grasp of your WHY, your GOAL, and your TARGET audience. Being specific and clear about these three factors will undoubtedly contribute to your podcast's success. So, take the time to consider these aspects carefully, and you'll be on your way to creating a hit podcast!
About Dave Lawson
Dave Lawson is a seasoned professional with over 20 years of experience in the broadcasting industry. He began his career as a morning personality at various radio stations before moving on to network radio, where he served over 30 stations nationwide. In 2016, Dave transitioned to Content Marketing, focusing on Podcast Strategy for busy business owners seeking to establish a professional-sounding audio and video podcast to build their business through digital content.
Drawing from his extensive experience in traditional broadcasting, Dave teaches his clients how to capture and retain audience attention and create content with a clear purpose. He is based in the Minneapolis area, where he balances his busy career with a family life that includes a wife and three kids. When he's not working, Dave loves staying fit, playing disc golf, and keeping up with the latest developments in AI and how they will impact the ever-changing world of content marketing. It's an exciting time to be alive, and Dave is eager to help his clients take full advantage of the opportunities presented by this rapidly evolving field.