What is a podcast?
A podcast is quite simply an audio recording that can be uploaded online, sent in an email or downloaded on to a MP3 player.
Broadcasting information in this format can enhance existing communications, save time, bring the message to life, or expand on briefer printed material.
What can podcasts can be used for?
Promotion: To help raise the profile of a service, product, event, activity, achievement - you name it. Those interested in your activities or courses can listen to a lively, atmospheric broadcast which brings your subject matter to life far better than printed material can.
Training:You can summarise or expand upon material from a training session, giving it a home online which can be used as a reference point by anyone interested in the subject matter – whether or not they can attend the actual training.
Seminars: we can provide a recording of an entire seminar, lecture or presentation or just the highlights to promote a product or service or simply provide it to people who did not get to the presentation.
Testimonials and case studies: This would be an excellent use of resources. Students and staff can talk about the projects and their impact.
What are the benefits of a podcast?
Effective communications – a podcast provides a more effective means of communicating to customers because it is a more direct form of communication. That means customers are more engaged with your message.
Interactivity – a podcast hits home with your customers better than other means of communicating. The character, expertise and enthusiasm of your team comes across to your customers – they connect more with you.
Innovation– podcasting demonstrates your organisation has a forward thinking outlook by using a very cutting edge form of communication. It’s also modern in its approach, with your people talking directly to your clients, or empowering your clients to broadcast themselves. The message is not tied up in PR speak or a sales pitch.
Podcasts go much further than more traditional press material ever could – and they can be listened to at any time, anywhere – you can download the information to listen to at your leisure – or even on the way to an appointment!
Video podcasts - are those which incorporate video as well as audio recording. They can be produced in-house with the right equipment, or through an outside agency. An important aspect to bear in mind is that no matter who physically produces or edits the video, it can be uploaded very simply to a blog or social networking site.
HERE are some examples of Passionate Media podcasts.
Click on the small triangular play button to hear each podcast.
Mincher-Lockett Opticians in Stafford welcome back one of their most dedicated customers, Wayne Evans, who has travelled the 3,500 miles from his home in the US regularly for 10 years for his annual check-up.
Speech and language therapist Libby Hill discusses her Small Talk business and her aim to help children develop their communication skills.
Colin Lee Opticiansmost loyal customers Mary and Eric Dixon tell Neil Aitchison what makes the family business' service so special.
Michaela Strachan discusses the wonderful facilities at Rodbaston College with Neil Aitchison.
New media director at Passionate Media Neil Aitchison explains how the podcast service works
Linda Jones, author of The Greatest Freelance Writing Tips in the World talks to Neil Aitchison about her book.
Passionate Media's Helen Moffat and Neil Aitchison talking about some of the business benefits of podcasting.
And there they are in the picture showing how it's done.
Read how the Birmingham Post reported on our podcast service.
