It might seem strange to consider yourself a “brand,” but if you’re hoping to have a successful career in the media industry, it’s time to start thinking that way. Even if your career goals might not be focused on selling a specific product or service, promoting yourself to a target audience is key to getting your name and ideas out there.

Consider this: think about your favorite media personalities, whether they’re online influencers, radio hosts, television broadcasters, sports announcers, or even producers. You might not know them personally, but the odds are that you can easily describe their personality, background, creative style, and more – that’s their branding. And if you’re going to make it in the fast-paced media industry, you’ll need to establish your brand and do everything you can to promote it.

There are several different ways to promote yourself, but starting a podcast has quickly become one of the easiest and most effective options. Promoting with podcasts has emerged as a highly popular and successful tool for personal branding, and we’re breaking everything you need to know to try it for yourself.

What is a Podcast?

A podcast is a series of spoken word episodes, typically led by a host or hosts, and focusing on a specific topic. There are a variety of streaming platforms and podcasting applications that make it easy for users to listen to, download, and subscribe to a range of podcasts across different devices. Every day, millions of people across the world listen to their podcasts of choice.

There are podcasts for virtually any subject you can think of, and just about anyone can start their own. With some how-to knowledge and good media education, some essential equipment, and a hosting site, you can start your podcast and start promoting yourself now.

Tips for Promoting with Podcasts

Because a podcast can establish a strong, genuine connection with your audience, it’s one of the best options for building a brand and advancing your presence in the industry. Here are a few tips for using podcasts to promote your brand. 

Be authentic to yourself and your brand.

First and foremost, it’s vital that you stay true to yourself when creating a podcast. Listeners will be able to detect a false persona almost immediately, and you’ll find it extremely difficult to build an audience base. Instead of trying to become the brand that you think will score you the most listeners, seek out an audience that will appreciate exactly what you have to offer.

Over time, you’ll find that your authenticity makes you relatable and accessible, helping the right audience connect with your content. The goal is to connect with individuals that are truly interested in your personal brand, setting you up for longtime listeners and a loyal following. 

Stick to a consistent recording and publishing schedule.

Before you start podcasting, develop a regular schedule that you know you’ll be able to commit to. One of the biggest pitfalls for new podcasts is an irregular posting schedule, especially because a lack of new episodes can lead your audience to forget about you.

Some podcasts publish a new episode once a week, while others share something new just a few times a month – ultimately, it’s up to you. Record a few episodes to “bank” before launch, so that you can be confident that you have podcast content at the ready. 

Invest time and energy into building your audience.

If your goal is to use a podcast to promote your brand, you’re going to need to put effort into growing your listener base. It’s not enough to simply record and publish a podcast; you also have to make sure people are actually downloading it and listening.

Submitting your podcast to various streaming services and directories, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts, is an excellent way to get the word out. Sharing on social media is also an effective option, as is connecting with fellow podcasters in your niche. If you have a website, incorporate a subscribe button for your podcast and regularly post about new episodes.

Perfect Your Podcast Promotion Skills with an Education in Media

A podcast is just one of the many ways you can promote your personal brand. In the diverse world of media, there are plenty of options for getting your name out there in a creative and memorable way.

Many of today’s most successful podcasters and industry leaders kicked off their careers by attending a media school or college. At the Media Schools located in Colorado, Ohio, Illinois, and Miami, our experienced instructors know exactly what it takes to make it in a highly competitive industry – and they’re here to teach you everything you need to pursue your dream job. Here, you can learn all about the skills and techniques you’ll need most, as well as how to promote yourself using the latest in trending media formats. Once you graduate, you’ll be prepared to jump into the industry and achieve your biggest professional goals.

Are you ready to begin your journey in the exciting field of media? Browse our programs and apply for your spot at the Media Schools today!

 

Image: By Dean Drobot