Effective Podcasts

Effective Podcasts
Many people assume that podcasting is all about audio and fail to acknowledge the writing behind the show. Skilled communicators understand the type of planning required in order to pull off a clean final product. The most memorable and effective podcasts are always well planned. Some of the best podcast shows use a script and follow a structured format. The preparation that occurs behind the scenes is similar to what would take place for a radio show.

Podcast Pre Show Preparation Tips

Preshow development, while monotonous and time consuming, will determine the quality of the finished production. Prepare for your podcast by following these simple steps:

Interviews
Prepare interview questions in advance of the show. In addition, develop possible follow-up questions and responses.

Segments
Anticipate how much time each segment should last. Make a schedule, and keep in mind that you can edit audio segments down if necessary.

Prepare Guests
Inform your guests about what they can expect. Familiarize them with the show's format and give them an idea of the anticipated length of the segment and the general theme of your questions.

Podcast Post Show Production Tips

Transcripts
Do not underestimate the importance of a transcript when it comes to a podcasting. Transcripts boost search ranking and allow you to re-purpose your show's contents.

Edit
Just as in the movies, your podcast should be melded together with smooth transitions between thoughtfully edited segments. The editing matters! Use software to polish your production.

If a show is recorded in one large segment, it should be edited down. Extraneous audio should be removed. Transition effects, background music, and intro or extro can be added.

Share
Provide your guests with a link to the show. If they are active on the web there is a good chance they will promote the segment on their website.

Establish Resources
Do not forget to add a section with links to any material cited in the podcast show.

The planning and work that takes place before and after a podcast is an important part for a professional show. Do not neglect preparation or post-show production tasks.

About the Author:
Sharon Housley manages marketing for FeedForAll http://www.feedforall.com software for creating, editing, publishing RSS feeds and podcasts. In addition Sharon manages marketing for RecordForAll http://www.recordforall.com podcast software for audio recording and editing.