Is it Really Worth Turning Your Articles Into Podcasts?

Time:2010-07-30 18:53:59 Source:Ezinearticles Author:James Gladwin

Time is money. This is particularly true for internet marketeers because there are so many demands on our time: product development, product marketing, list building, forum marketing - the day isn't long enough.

So do we want to add yet another item to our "To do" list? Even though podcasting is a buzz word, is it something that we should be doing? Is it really worth turning articles into podcasts, for instance?

Well, first things first. Let's look at what a pod cast is, and then look at the pros and cons.

Briefly, a podcast is a pretty simple concept: it is an audio (or video) file that you can download and listen to, or watch. And although videos and audio files have been around the internet for years, podcasts are different because a) they are portable and they are 'on demand' (that's the 'pod' part) and b) the 'cast' means that the file is sent via the web, which means any computer can access them using software that can subscribe, forward, cancel and so on. And, crucially, you can transfer them to an MP3 player.

So why might it be worthwhile to turn your articles into podcasts, and how difficult might it be?

Well, the number of people interested in downloading podcasts is increasing; this is partly due to the rise in mp3 players and smartphones, but also because you can listen or view podcasts anywhere so long as you have your mobile phone (for instance). You are not tied to your computer. So commuters, travelers, people on the move can choose to download podcasts and listen to them at their leisure.

There's another thing: podcasts are a great way to attract new customers. Software known as RSS feeds allow people to select their podcasts and download new material when it becomes available.

Moreover, if you offer podcasts it puts you ahead of the pack - you benefit from the perception that you are up in the front rank from a technology point of view.

And your podcasts can be syndicated - recent estimates put the number of people interested in podcasts at 56 million (in 2010) according to a market survey.

Is it difficult to make a podcast? Well, it will take practice at first, and longer if you are not relaxed around technology. You will need a microphone, and some kind of recording software. You will need to create an RSS feed. Then you will need to upload your feed to the Internet and publish it. And then list it in directories, and wait for it to be indexed. And, by the way, there are numerous tutorials available on the net and social media sites that take you step by step though this process.

If you have been writing articles for some time you have a databank of material that can be turned into podcasts. This means that you are not having to create any new material.All you will have to do is get to grips with the recording software and the RSS processes.

Is it worth it? If you are starting out to build you online business, I would recommend that you make progress in other areas first. Build your mailing list. Create your products. Develop your affiliate profile. And so on.

Podcasting is one part of your internet marketing strategy. Is it worth turning your articles into podcasts - yes, definitely. You will reach a wider audience. You will attract new customers. And you will be perceived as an author and marketer who is abreast of technology which will enhance your profile and status.

Good luck! My best to you.

Was this article of interest and value? James Gladwin is a successful Internet marketer and a list building expert. Get your own List Building product that you can sell - and make money! Click here: http://www.ultrasimplewebtraffic.com/email_course_ezine.html

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=James_Gladwin

James Gladwin - EzineArticles Expert Author

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