April 5, 2006

I don't write particulary well, especially as compared to other bloggers and people with whom I work. 

But I can talk your ear off, if given the opportunity.

I was fortunate to be interviewed last week by Alex Williams for the Podcast on the Floor in my very first podcast.  Cathy Wang sent the link over this morning, and it was with some trepidation that I opened it, turned on my speakers, and listened. 

I was reminded of how nervous I was the first time I hit the "Post" button on Marqui's World.  Frankly, it was a little scary to listen to myself.  And of course, I blushed when I heard myself stuttering and tripping over my words - which, inevitably, I did. 

But I'm convinced podcasts can be an extremely valuable marketing tool.  Every brand manager knows the value of building personal connections with their audience.   What better way is there to connect - than to add a voice to your brand?  Anyone who takes the time to listen to that interview will know Marqui just a little better as a result.  For better or for worse.

At Marqui, we're entering into the world of podcasting to give voice to our customers, our employees and our ideas.  We'll be blogging (and podcasting) as we move through the process, in order to share our experiences with our audience, like:

• Choosing the right equipment - 'Get a good microphone!' is what everyone tells me
• Creating a brand "bumper" -  What fun it will be to find a riff or a tune to represent Marqui's brand
• Convincing our customers to be interviewed - Who will be willing to go first, and what will it take?
• Marketing your podcast - How do you use them to extend your reach?

As always, we welcome your comments, concerns and creative suggestions as we explore this new communication channel. 

Who are you listening to?

Posted by at April 5, 2006

Comments

Amanda email - amanda.prblogs.org

Isn't it scary to hear you voice played back at you? When we first began recording podcasts in our Style and Design podcast at Auburn University, I thought my voice was the worst thing I had ever heard. At least that podcast wasn't put on the web. Thank goodness.

I agree that podcasts are becoming a very valuable tool in today's society. Even though this isn't really marketing, some Auburn University classes are now podcasting their classes. Now students can hear those interesting and exciting lectures over and over again!

But on to podcasts in marketing. Although I am new at most of this technology, I recognize that podcasts could be a great marketing tool. I agree that they add a "voice" to your brand. Podcasts could really make it come alive, give it it's own personality. Podcasts could help consumers feel more connected and in touch with the brand and the companies executives.

What I am still trying to understand is how you can make your target audience aware of and tuned into these podcasts. But, once you can get your audience on board with podcasts, you can have a new, creative, effective form of marketing.

Janet email - www.marqui.com/blog

Well, you can submit your podcast to several directories - that's a great way to get the awareness up. Robin Good, the guy who barfed all over one of our whitepapers, has a great list of the top 50 directories for podcasts here - (http://www.masternewmedia.org/news/2005/05/20/where_to_submit_your_podcasts.htm)

That would be a start!

robert email - blog.bigsnit.com

Hey Janet, if you want some help with the Marqui podcasts, give me a call.

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