As you probably already know, podcasting has grown in popularity significantly in the last couple of years. People love them! You can find a podcast on almost any topic you’re interested in and listeners can’t get enough. Podcasting is such an amazing way to connect with your audience. It can build trust and relationships and grow your business if done right. With that said, when first getting into it, many people get so excited to jump in that they make common mistakes new podcasters make often. Some dust themselves off and try again, and some simply give up.
Don’t get too nervous though, many podcasters have come before you and have shared their mistakes so that you don’t have to repeat them. By following their advice, you can start your podcast with confidence and start reaping the benefits.
Here are some of the top mistakes new podcasters make:
They spend too much money on things that don’t actually matter
In today’s society, it’s easy to fall into the trap of “shiny object syndrome” and go for the latest and greatest when it comes to podcast equipment, tools, and software. However, when you are just getting started, keep it simple. There is a lot of good stuff out there that will get the job done without depleting your budget. Consider saving the fancier equipment and gadgets for a later date when you have grown your show.
They don’t have a niche
Love them or hate them, the riches are in the niches. Though you may want to cover a variety of topics on your show that you are passionate about, try to narrow it down to a niche. You will become known as the expert in your field and your audience will grow in no time. Remember, if you try to speak to everyone, you will speak to no one.
They set unrealistic expectations
If you are a part of any podcasting community, you may see posts about podcasters reaching extremely high and impressive download numbers in a record amount of time or their show hit number one the week it came out. While this is amazing for them, that’s more of an exception than a rule. In general, podcasting growth is slow and steady. Don’t compare your show to any other shows. You will all have your own unique journey.
They make avoidable recording mistakes
A good show starts with recording. Editing software can be amazing for cleaning up dialogue and shortening pauses, but it isn’t magic. Some audio issues simply can’t be fixed in editing. You can avoid this altogether by ensuring the room you are in is quiet, you turn your phone on silent, avoid tapping your pen, etc. Check out this full list of recording tips!
They aren’t consistent
When you start your podcast, you want to set a release schedule and stick with it. Consistency is key to podcast success. If you tell your audience you will be releasing a new episode every Wednesday, release one every Wednesday! This shows that you are reliable and trustworthy. Many listeners tune in while working or commuting and look forward to certain days when they will get to tune into their favorite shows, and the last thing you want to do is let them down.
They don’t plan ahead
Speaking of being consistent, planning ahead is a huge factor in staying on schedule, even when things don’t go as planned. Creating a content calendar and scheduling interviews weeks in advance will keep you on track and give you a backup plan if something falls through. Trust me, planning ahead will save you lots of headaches down the road.
Podcasting is hard work but it’s totally worth it. By avoiding these small mistakes, you will get the confidence you need to stick with it and build traction so that you can grow your audience, and your business to new heights. Good luck!
Are you interested in learning more about becoming a great podcaster? Read more of our favorite posts here:
9 Podcast Recording Tips Every Great Host Follows
The Best Productivity Tips for Podcasters
How to Create a Podcast CTA That Your Listeners Won’t Be Able to Resist
