20 Unwritten Rules About Podcasting

Podcasting has become a significant medium for content creation, allowing voices from all over the world to share their stories and expertise. While there are formal guidelines for creating and distributing podcasts, there are also unwritten rules that can help a podcaster connect with their audience, improve their content, and maintain professionalism. Here are 20 unwritten rules to keep in mind when creating a podcast:

1. Have a Clear Purpose
   Know your podcast’s mission. Whether it’s to educate, entertain, or inspire, your purpose should be clear to both you and your audience.
2. Consistency is Key
   Regularly publish episodes. Consistency helps build a loyal audience who knows when to expect new content.
3. Engage with Your Audience
   Respond to feedback, ask for listener input, and create opportunities for your audience to interact with you.
4. Quality Audio Matters
   Bad sound quality can drive listeners away. Invest in a good microphone and editing software to produce clear and crisp audio.
5. Keep it Concise
   Time is valuable, so respect your audience by keeping episodes to a reasonable length. Don’t drag out discussions unnecessarily.
6. Intro and Outro Matter
   Start and end your podcast with professional and welcoming intros and outros. These provide structure and set the tone for each episode.
7. Don’t Overpromise
   Make sure the content you deliver aligns with what you’ve promised in your episode descriptions. False promises can lead to disappointed listeners.
8. Avoid Over-editing
   It’s important to edit out unnecessary pauses and stumbles, but don’t overdo it. Authenticity is part of what draws people to podcasts.
9. Offer Value
   Provide something useful to your listeners, whether it’s information, inspiration, or entertainment. Always think about how your podcast benefits your audience.
10. Be Transparent
    If you’re promoting something or if there’s sponsorship involved, let your audience know. Transparency builds trust.
11. Keep Your Guests Engaged
    If you interview guests, make sure they feel comfortable and involved. Keep the conversation dynamic and engaging for your listeners.
12. Practice Good Storytelling
    The best podcasts are often those that tell a compelling story. Whether it’s through interviews or narratives, engaging storytelling is key to keeping your audience interested.
13. Don’t Interrupt Too Much
    While conversation is important, constant interruptions can disrupt the flow. Let your guests speak without cutting them off unless it’s necessary.
14. Stay True to Your Voice
    Authenticity is one of the biggest draws of podcasts. Be yourself, and don’t try to imitate others just for popularity.
15. Invest in Your Podcast’s Branding
    Have a recognizable logo, podcast cover art, and clear descriptions. Branding plays a significant role in making your podcast stand out.
16. Research Before Recording
    Prepare well for each episode, especially if you’re discussing a specific topic. Research ensures your podcast is accurate and well-informed.
17. Don’t Rely on Ads Too Soon
    While monetizing is an important goal for many podcasters, jumping into ads too quickly can alienate your audience. Wait until you have a steady following before incorporating too many ads.
18. Stay Consistent with Episode Themes
    Whether your podcast is about interviews, storytelling, or a specific niche, stay consistent with your episode themes so listeners know what to expect.
19. Respect Other Creators
    If you mention or reference other podcasters, respect their work. Collaboration and mutual respect go a long way in building a supportive podcasting community.
20. Take Breaks When Needed
    Don’t feel the pressure to produce episodes non-stop. Taking breaks allows you to recharge, come back with fresh ideas, and prevent burnout.

By following these unwritten rules, you’ll create a podcast that not only sounds professional but also resonates with your audience and builds lasting relationships. Happy podcasting!