As we all know, money is time and time is money; so as a
freelancer, you're aware that your time is everything except free. With this in mind, why are more freelancers choosing to dedicate their time to podcasting?
Could it be that freelancers are closing the gap between niche freelancing and traditional media? Or is it that people want information instantly? This is
especially considering the lack of time we all seem to have these days.
Dive in with Jané Rossouw from media update as we speculate on the reasons behind podcasts' popularity among freelancers:
If you have a niche, then you are already almost famous
As a freelancer in the media, you know how frustrating it is when you are looking for that one specific detail, piece of research, campaign, or brand; you have to scroll through
so much data and information to find that 1%.
That 1% can be conveyed over in one simple chat on a podcast, which minimises two hours of scrolling through articles to a 25-minute airpod discussion. See the convenience?
But here is the catch: Even though listeners are
running to audio rather than text, freelancers still need to be careful not to
overload their listeners with information on the topic.
The danger of niche podcasting:Yes, we want to hear your voice and
yes, you are positioned as a
niche connoisseur; but that does not mean you should take up all your listeners' time by talking for
hours about one topic that could have been discussed in an hour.
This can be avoided if that episode is broken up into separate podcast sessions in one series. Rein in your voice and remember that listeners are running to audio for time convenience, so don't inconvenience them by taking up all their time.
It is a confidence boost to your skills
Sharing the opportunities you've had, the struggles you've faced and the journey you've gone on
inspires and
educates others in the media industry. Not only that, but it can also give
you a confidence boost when you are facing hard times.
Think about it … we
all have our ups and downs, even more so for freelancers who don't have the parachute that working for a brand can offer. Sometimes freelancers can start doubting their journey and the skills they have for it — yet there you are, podcasting to individuals who believe in you and your story.
The dangers of opening up on air:Talking about your journey in the media industry and your work as a freelancer opens up a vulnerable channel for the haters. Remember: You are taking your content and putting it in the line of fire and not everybody will agree with you — and that is
okay.
But opening up and believing in your skills as a podcaster means you are putting your skills and confidence to the test and, believe us, people
will test it. However, you are the pro and you have the experience and knowledge to back up what you're saying. So just be ready when it happens.
Expanding your network while working
A key element of podcasts is bringing in other speakers so that you can discuss a variety of topics. Freelancers,
networking is key — both on air and in the media.
If you are networking with others with strong voices and followings, you can increase your listening by
a whole lot more. Not only that, but you are also expanding your reach into other territories or industries.
Networking also gives freelancers and podcasters the opportunity to grow their own
knowledge and
skills through the people that they network with. By networking with others, you are also staying up-to-date with industry trends and topics — gaining insight into other opinions on certain matters.
Starting a podcast also gives you the chance to create a community surrounding your skills, tips and conversations. This means that you can expand your knowledge with similar freelancers or you can start teaching others about your craft.
The dangers of networking as a freelancer and as a podcaster:Now you've got double trouble as a freelancer and as a podcaster. We know that we need to network and that sometimes different voices are good but — and it's a
big but — be careful who you network with.
Guilty by association is not just a general phrase but something freelancers need to be wary of. If you invite or are associated with a very controversial figure, it could do a lot of damage to your brand and the people who support you. So if you are on the daredevil side make sure you have
a PR plan in place to save you if you
do fall from grace.
If you can think of more reasons why podcasts are so popular with freelancers, let us know what they are in the comments section below.
*Image courtesy of Canva