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What is a podcast? A podcast is a radio style talk show that can be listened to on your iPod or other MP3 player. First launched in 2006, millions of people are now downloading and creating podcasts of their own on every topic imaginable.

With subjects from weight loss tips to finance information, to marketing to travel trips – podcasts are simple and easy to do – you don’t even need expensive sound equipment. If fact, with the right planning, you can create your own radio show within a day.

How can you podcast? Find something that you are passionate about, perhaps some articles you have written and simply record them as a podcast. If you an iPhone you can record an MP3 file on this and then simply upload it to iTunes or podomatic.com. To make it more professional, you can import it into some editing software like audacity.com or garagebrand on a mac and do an intro and exit to your podcast.

If you are going to do a series of podcasts then here are some tips:

• Define your goals. Do you want it to increase traffic to your site? Build your brand? Or do you want to demonstrate your credibility, educate people or entertain?
• Pick a topic. This allows your audience to know the sort of content to expect and keep coming back for more. Also it ensures you are not trying to be all things to all people.
• Pick a target market. Try and be specific. You have to identify who you are talking to otherwise you will end up losing your listeners.
• Have a great show idea. Storyboard your ideas. If you can’t think of more than 12 ideas you may need to rethink your idea.
• Decide on the type of podcast. Is it interview based, informational, tips and tricks, or a how-to?
• Set a time aside. Consistency is the key. Once a week is great, but every couple of weeks is ok too. Just get a schedule and stick to it.
• Decide how long your show should be. It depends on your audience, but it keep it clear and concise.
• If you are going to have guests make a contact list. You will be amazed who will say yes. If this is the case you will need to be able to record online and so I recommend Skype Call recorder.
• Have a clear call to action. Don’t leave it up to chance. Make your call to action very clear, and include an address to your website or blog.
• Preparation. Preparation is everything. If you are having a guest, research them thoroughly. Even if you are podcasting your own voice, have a good headset mic or be in a quiet space. Practice and smile when you talk, it sounds better.
• Promotion. Once you have recorded and edited your podcast you then need to promote it. iTunes is a great site to list your show on. Podomatic or podbean creates a RSS feed that you can submit to iTunes automatically as well as your social media profiles like Facebook and Twitter. You will want to have a link to your podcast on your website or blog as well as a sign up form so you can send people your new episodes automatically.  You can also submit your podcast to podcast directories for free.

Danielle MacInnis is a sought-after strategic marketer who focuses on understanding customer needs and company insights to deliver marketing that works. With over 20 years marketing experience with some of Australia’s leading corporate companies, Dan now runs a successful consultancy business. Find out more on Danielle at http://www.macinnismarketing.com.au or subscribe to her podcast at http://itunes.apple.com/au/podcast/dan-macinnis-podcast/id322885050

Danielle is a Premium member of Business Chicks, connect with her here