The Same Skill Set ...

Although they are on different audio platforms, podcasters, online broadcasters, and terrestrial radio air talent all share the same goals. They're trying to appeal to their audience. For these personalities to succeed there's the need of passion for the work, a willingness to learn, desire, an open mind, the ability to read, and an ego in check. Knowing what to say and how to say it is an easy art form to learn.

No Matter What ... Regardless of the audio platform you're on, it takes the same skill set to connect with the audience. Therefore, learn how to become yourself behind the mic or create a believable persona. Authenticity is what you can sell to an audience. Never buy into the hype surrounding what you do. Stay grounded and keep in mind, it's an awesome responsibility to be a voice or image to so many.

At Your Own Pace ... People learn and grow at different paces. It's what makes us human. A recurring theme for personalities is learning how to show more of their personality. A good podcast personality, online broadcaster, or terrestrial air talent can enhance the listening experience. In life, those with the exceptional ability to make us laugh and smile make the best impression.

Mental Pictures … Those who work in each of these audio platforms create images with their words. The early pioneers of the terrestrial radio platform knew what research and Mscore tell us today, it's in the presentation.

Podcasters/Online Radio/Terrestrial Air Talent Need To:

• Record every show and listen to it
• Be prepared and prep for every show
• Once a week get your show critiqued
• Have a pre-interview process for interviews
• Be patient with yourself. The more you work at it, the easier things get.
• Create a persona you can be on your shown and in public.
• When not doing a show ... practice ... and then practice some more
• Find a coach or a mentor

The One Difference ... The one thing that a stand-alone podcaster and online broadcaster sometimes must deal with is the audio quality of their show. That sometimes ranges from the microphone issues to the space where shows are done.

How To Do This ... Approach each show as if you are a live stage actor. Your mind set should be to get it right the first time. Too many have gotten in the habit of relying on going back in and editing. Regardless of the audio platform, the objective is to make a connection with the audience. A connection isn't measured by the number of words or length of time of a show. It's the convincing performance you give. That's why I use a stage performance rather than a movie or recorded live before a TV studio audience as an example.

It's You ... Your voice is the instrument that will create the platform for effective communication. A voice is capable of conveying motivation, energy, humor, hope, affection, worry, passion, desperation, want, terror, fear, and happiness. Your voice and how you use it are the key to success in this business.