Understanding Podcasting – Why It Is Rarely Used In the Blogging World despite Its Success

In a world where iPods and MP3s proliferate, podcasting has become a great way of marketing any product or service on the internet. The term is used to describe a technology that allows users to download audio files for later listening to. While podcasting was coined from the Apple’s popular portable MP3 player, it is no longer exclusive to the iPod.

Podcasting has always been useful in the blogging world because it allows the written word to be broadcasted online. Blogging is no longer about writing – it can also be used to provide users a new way of getting information without reading it. By podcasting, your followers can take your words even when on the go. It enables them to share this information without needing to go online.  Hence, it is a great way to create your brand and promote it through the word of mouth.

The great thing about podcasting is that it offers users control over the content. They can go back to particular sections they are interested in and listen to it over and over. Unlike TV and the radio, podcasting enables users to choose when they can listen, and which parts they want to listen to. For me, this is one of the reasons of the success of the technology. Coupled with excellent content and other blogging tools such as RSS (Really Simple Syndication), podcasting your blog posts can lead to success.

What Prevents Bloggers from Podcasting their Content?

Podcasting is a tedious job. It requires a lot of preparation – from recording to the release of the audio file. You will first need to read the blog posts on your site, and then you’ll have to listen to it so you know that your recording is clear and can be understood by your listeners. Of course, you’ll need a good tone of voice and great enunciation so you can keep the interest of your followers. Just like the radio, podcasting relies on the person reading the “script”. With a monotonous tone, listeners can drift off, and will fail to record the important information you are saying.

Once the recording part is dealt with, the blogger must also find a way for the podcast to syndicate the podcast. You can submit the audio file to several sites, but again, this will take a long time. If you really want to use podcasting to promote your brand, then you’ll need to get the word out – hence, podcast syndication will require submission to 20 or more sites. This can take a few hours – precious hours which can cut into a bloggers daily schedule. But if you really wish to create a brand for your site, then you might want to consider podcasting. Keep in mind however that this strategy is a commitment. Just like your blog posts, your podcasts must come out at regular periods.