Are you wondering how to record your direct sales podcast?
I’m assuming you have already decided what your show is going to be about and even what the name/format is, so let’s keep going.
Select a Microphone
If you’re starting a show, you’re probably wondering how to choose a microphone for your podcast.
We’re going to talk about how to do this on a shoestring budget- after all, you’re just beginning!
Goal: choose a microphone for your podcast
Audio quality is more important than most people realize – poor audio quality will quickly turn people off, even if they can’t specifically name why.
It’s important you know how to choose a microphone for your podcast so the amazing content you’ve planned won’t be skipped over due to bad tin-y, echo-y, crunchy sounding audio.
What should you consider?
For your recording platform and microphone, you’ll want to think about your format:
- how many hosts do you have?
- are you in the same room?
- will you have guests for interviews? Local? Remote?
More important than your microphone is where you are recording. Unless you have access to studio space, I recommend using a small carpeted closet. Here’s why:
The carpet and items hanging will absorb sound. A smaller room means less echo.
You can absolutely record using the voice notes app in your phone or an all in one service like Anchor (which also serves as an app for editing and distributing).
Your smartphone in a good space will sound better than a fancy microphone in a bad space.
How about specifics?
I put together this podcaster starter list that provides the direct seller beginning his/her some price conscious options, from $23- $200.
I began my journey with an inexpensive noise cancelling headset, moved up to an Audio-Technica ATR2100, treated myself to a Blue Yeti Pro as a self reward for a download milestone but then realized my fancy Yeti was too sensitive- I see this recommended for podcasters all the time but respectfully disagree.
The Audio-Technica ATR2100 is great because it has the option to upgrade from USB to a fancier system if I ever do an event based live show or something. The price point is fair and I’ve got her 100 shows of my own to prove it’s a great basic starter with room to grow. Final answer.
If you’re recording alone or with a remote guest, a USB microphone will be just fine as you consider how to choose a microphone for your podcast.
If you are recording with multiple people in the same location, you’ll need XLR microphones for each person and a USB audio interface to connect to your computer.
A note on microphone technique
Ask any singer, actor, or actress and they’ll tell you- there’s an art to using a microphone. Some microphones are designed to be spoken into from the top, while others are best from the side.
Additionally, many rookie podcasters get really excited and the influx of their voice (normal to loud and harsh) is irritating, no matter what fancy microphone and perfect space they are using. You should practice speaking into a microphone and think about technique- it’s not just talking.
The biggest rookie mistake I hear podcasters making is “popping” their p-sounds. A pop filter will fix this for less than taking your girlfriend out for coffee.
Action Step: Select a microphone within your budget that complements your format.
If you’re in direct sales and are thinking about starting a podcast, connect with me! You can also listen to Serve then Sell, which is about direct sales and will include future albums about podcasting as a marketing channel.
I offer coaching services and guidance and have firsthand experience selling ZYIA Active while hosting Run Lift Mom, which has been featured on New & Noteworthy and charted at number 17 in Kids & Family!
