So You Wanna Start a Podcast for Your Freelance Business
Podcasts are all the rage — but should you join the noise?
If you’re a freelancer, you know that standing out from the competition is essential to success.
With so many people offering similar services, you must find ways to set yourself apart and make potential clients see the value in working with you. One way that many are finding effective is by starting a podcast.
A well-executed pod can be a great way to build your brand, establish yourself as an expert in your field, and attract new clients.
But before you launch a show, it’s essential to understand the pros and cons — and whether or not it will complement your existing marketing strategy.
The Pros of Starting a Podcast
There are plenty of reasons why starting a podcast can be an excellent idea for freelance business owners:
Launching a podcast is a great way to build your personal brand.
When freelancing, your name is your brand, so anything you can do to make it more recognizable is a plus.
A podcast lets you put your name and face (or voice) out regularly in front of potential clients, which can help you attract new business.
Podcasts give you a new platform for demonstrating your expertise in your field.
Each episode is an opportunity to share your insights and knowledge with listeners, which can help position you as an authority figure in your industry.
This is especially helpful if you’re just starting as a freelancer and looking to build your portfolio and client base.
Podcasts can be an excellent way to network with other professionals in your field.
Many podcasters invite guests on their shows to discuss various topics related to their industry.
This gives you an opportunity to learn from other experts and connect with them and build relationships that could lead to future collaborations or referral business down the road.
Cons of Starting a Podcast
Of course, starting a podcast isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. There are some challenges you’ll face as well.
Podcasts require time and effort to produce consistently high-quality episodes.
We all know the difference between a well-produced show and one that’s thrown together last minute, and your listeners will be able to tell, too.
If you’re already struggling to find enough time in your day as it is, adding another project like this may not be realistic.
Podcasts can be expensive to produce if you don’t have the equipment.
You’ll need quality audio equipment and editing software, which can add up quickly if you’re just getting started.
From microphones to mixers to soundproofing materials, the cost of launching a podcast can range from a few hundred to a couple of thousand dollars, depending on the level of quality you’re looking for.
Podcasts require consistency to be successful.
If you start a podcast and then only release new episodes sporadically, you’re not likely to build a large following.
And without a solid listener base, achieving your goals for the show will be difficult. This means that starting a podcast is only a good idea if you’re prepared to commit to a regular publishing schedule.
So, Are You Ready to Pod?
Knowing how to scale your business in new and creative ways is the secret weapon of freelancers.
For some, turning existing content into a podcast can be a great way to attract new clients and grow their business. But it’s critical to consider the pros and cons before taking the leap to ensure that starting a podcast is the right decision for you and your business goals.
Have you considered starting a podcast? Why or why not? Let me know in the comments below!
