Two often overlooked aspects of your podcast are the intro and outro. These pieces are so important to the success of your podcast as they are what pulls your listeners in initially and ensures that they come back for more. To make sure that you are capitalizing on this time, we have created this guide on how to carefully craft these two components.
The introduction to each new podcast episode is crucially important for pulling your audience in and holding their interest. This is especially so for first-time listeners who may not be familiar with your content and are shopping around for a new show to dive into. Here are a few tips on how to craft yours:
· Make it personal. Start by introducing yourself to your listeners and welcoming them to the show. Many hosts like to thank their audience for tuning in so that they know that their time is appreciated.
· Mention who the podcast is for. As the podcast’s host, you know your target demographic well and what types of people will find your content most appealing. Mentioning this will let first-time listeners know whether or not they are in the right place.
· Briefly introduce your podcast and what will be covered in this episode. This is where you will sell the episode to your listeners so make sure that your overview quickly touches on all of the most interesting aspects. Think about why your specific demographic finds your podcast intriguing and tell them how this episode’s content will engage them.
If your listener has made it this far, it is likely that they have enjoyed your content and would be willing to tune in again. Capitalize on this momentum by using these tips to make the journey back easy for them:
Since these two sections of your podcast are incredibly important, many hosts choose to script them to ensure that all pertinent information is included. It can be easy to forget to mention your Instagram handle or ask your listeners to hit the subscribe button when you’re caught up in the moment.
Another strategy is to record both the intro and outro after the fact. This way, you are able to tailor your overview to what actually ends up being said. As you are recording, things can go off in directions that you weren’t initially expecting, and this method will allow you to incorporate these new aspects.
Now that you are ready to make a lasting impression on your listeners, why not do it through TalkShoe and take advantage of the amazing FREE services that we offer? The platform allows you to record and stream your podcast live from anywhere. With unlimited hosting and storage, TalkShoe makes it easy so that all you have to worry about is creating your content.
Live in Toronto? You can come down to our state-of-the-art studio inside Stackt Market and record an episode here with us!
If you have been invited to be a guest on someone’s podcast, you should be incredibly flattered! Whether you’re an expert in your field, bring a fresh perspective to the table, or have opinions you’re willing to share, this is a great opportunity for you to get your voice heard. Although you might think that the host is the only one who should be preparing, doing your part as the guest to contribute will certainly lead to a more memorable recording. Follow these 3 steps to ensure that you leave a lasting impression on your host and your audience.
The host may or may not choose to share their interview questions with you beforehand. If they do, use this as an opportunity to determine how best to answer them. In our previous blog post, we discuss how to decide whether or not you should script your content, and this may be useful to review when planning your responses.
If the host does not provide you with interview questions, it is likely that you have a general idea of the subject matter that you will be discussing. Take some time to think through how you wish to present yourself and your ideas, and even jot down some notes if you feel that it will be helpful. If required, do a bit of extra research on the topic to make sure that you come off sounding both prepared and professional.
If you will be recording your episode in the same location as your host, you can skip over this section. However, if getting together in person is not possible and you will be connecting remotely (as can be done online with the TalkShoe platform), it is important that you prepare the space that you will be recording in for the best sounding audio.
When selecting your location:
· Choose the quietest space that you can
· Avoid public places or anywhere with excessive background noise
· If recording at home, a carpeted room is best to reduce echo
· If necessary, kindly inform neighbours in advance so they can reduce their noise during this time
Using an external microphone is ideal and doesn’t have to break the bank. The Samson
Portable Go Mic costs only $30 and is a great option for the occasional podcaster. If this is a one-time endeavor, TalkShoe allows you to use either your mobile device or computer mic to record with. Make sure you have everything set up in advance so you’re not scrambling on the day of recording.
If you have followed these steps, you are now ready to make a memorable podcast appearance! If you want any extra advice on vocal delivery strategies, check out the tips and tricks from our previous blog post. Although this might seem like a lot of pressure, don’t be nervous! You’re going to do great.
