Through internet technology, it is now possible for even the smallest business owners to introduce their business to the world-wide web. By simply establishing a website, you now have access to a global audience and smart entrepreneurs are quickly implementing new marketing tactics that not only drive traffic to their website, but keeps them there! Audio Podcasting is a relatively inexpensive marketing strategy when compared to other options such as print advertisements, banner ads and radio or TV commercials. An audio podcast is simply a recorded audio file in mp3 format that can easily summarize what's inside all of the tabs, screens and links on your website, allowing listeners to quickly understand what you are offering and how to navigate their way to the information they really came searching for.
But all Audio Podcast are not created equal, so when selecting a Production Studio to create your Podcast, remember that you get what you pay for. Below describes 10 Tactical Tips to help you clarify not only what you are looking for, but where you should be looking.
1. Choose a studio with experience in recording and production.
Since you will be using this Podcast to attract potential clients, avoid the "do it yourself" temptation. Choose an experienced professional who understands not only broadcast level recording, but engineering and mastering techniques that generate pure, realistic sound as opposed to sounding like Darth Vader was your voice-over choice.
2. Ensure they use professional grade equipment and virus protections.
Now is not the time to test the recording capabilities on your new 3G Smartphone. By using professional grade equipment, there will be no garble, static, and no sign of snap, crackle or pop. The desired studio should also have high-level virus protection on all software and computer applications they use.
3. Understand what you want and determine if their production studio can deliver.
Take the time to determine what it is you want your Audio Podcast to accomplish. Will it be informational or promotional? What tone are you trying to set (i.e. humorous, fun or entertaining, strictly business, etc). A true professional production studio should be able to guide you through the process because this will not be their first time working with multi-media marketing. If they don't know...and you don't know...probability for a profitable return on investment is not
4. Confirm that the studio has original music available for background use.
Although it might sound 'cool' to use a hot, popular or recognizable track behind your voice, do you really want your listeners focusing on the music, reminiscing on memories or thinking about their week-end entertainment? Of course not. You want them totally attentive on what you are trying to present to them. Background music on your audio podcast should be a subtle enhancement to add movement and energy. A professional production studio has a music library with choices in all genres and, before you start thinking, "This is going to cost me an arm and a leg!"; fear not. The music should be considered non-exclusive, which means they may re-use the same or similar versions of the music for multiple clients, but your Podcast will be customized with either your vocals, or vocals from a male or female voice over artist and your personalized script.
5. Request a sample Podcast to test their quality and speed of delivery.
Ask if they can provide a short sample (15 - 20 seconds) to give you an idea or concept on how a Podcast can work specifically for you and your business. If they do not make specific short samples (due to cost their business might incur if these request come too frequently), then ask to tour their studio if they are located locally.
6. Check out their website.
If they are promoting Podcast they should be using Podcast themselves... right? Additionally, their website will also provide other information that can help you research who they are and what is their experience. Sure, not all people are honest, but you get the idea.
7. Take the time to fill out and review a service request.
Do not rely on email exchanges or phone conversations to verify what you are actually requesting. A professional will present you with a service request, generally no longer than 1 page, with specific questions relative to creating the Podcast you want.
8. Ensure they use a secured Payment site.
We all know the cardinal rule: Do not send cash in the mail. If you are leery of paying via credit card on the internet, realize that your request may be delayed if you have to pay by check. An astute business merchant is going to verify that your check is good first! Once an Audio Podcast is delivered, it can't be retracted, PayPal is probably one of the most common secured payment sites but there are others. If you are not sure, do your research.
9. Ask about bulk or repeat discounts.
We all love a sale right? Production studios who have been in business a while understand the concept and importance of repeat business and referrals, therefore, they may offer special discounts. In the mist of our current economic conditions, businesses are looking to establish on-going relationships as opposed to one-time shoppers and discounts for repeat business encourages long-term clients.
10. Ask about terms and conditions.
You are not in search of a legal dissertation here, but you do want to understand delivery time-frames, cost you are agreeing to, and any other terms of use, including service guarantees. What happens if the file won't play or if you have trouble downloading it? Get a clear understanding. Whomever maintains your website should have the savvy to download an MP3 file because a production studio does not have that kind of access to your website. But don't be afraid to ask questions.
Sheila R. Wall
http://www.kingofkingsrecords.com
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