Going to industry-related events is a good way to get new content ideas for your podcast. this is so because you can talk to lots of industry insiders and other persons at the conference with valuable information for your audience.
To get started here’s what you’ll need. A portable recorder such a Xoom or Tascam. A dynamic microphone, xlr cables and rechargeable batteries, a notebook and a pen. This is your conference kit.
Once you have your kit ready it’s time to hit the conference. As a side note, you can use your cellphone to do interviews as well. So if you can’t buy the equipment then use what you have.
When you get to the conference first scout the booths and agendas for all activities that you can get valuable information for your audience. Make notes in your notebook before you start to hit the floor. That way you get the relevant interviews. Keep in mind that how you frame your questions will be super important. What you’re looking to get is tips to share on your podcast.
Once you have all the interviews you plan to do, get started collecting information. Connect your microphone for your digital recorder and go up to each booth one by one. When approaching people, smile, say hello and introduce yourself.
When they respond, let them know you want to ask them a few questions to get some tips relating to what they do for your podcast. Example, if the person sells drip irrigation equipment, ask for tips on how persons can set up a system, and maintenance tips. Let them know what the show is about. if they agree to do the interview proceed to ask questions.
Before starting the interview ask the person their name and title. This will help you identify each person you talk to when you are ready to edit. Here are some questions you could ask:
- How did you get started in the business?
- Walk me through how your product/software work?
- what are some tips that people should keep in mind when dealing with this problem?
- While building your business what challenges did you face? how did you overcome them?
The aim is to get their story and get them to talk about their product and services, as well as give you tips. While doing the interview look the person in the ey. It helps you connect with them as well as let them know you are paying attention. Don’t be afraid to ask follow-up questions. As well as ask additional questions to get a full understanding of what they do.
The people you talk to depends on the problem you solve for your audience. Get relevant information that is tied to your show. That way the value you collect will let the experience worth it. BE sure to talk to the event organizers as well as a few of the keynote speakers. TO round out your coverage of the event.
If possible share while you are at the event on your social media channels, and start prepping your episodes while at the event. Take notes of the things you can use and so on. THis will make life easier for you when producing the podcast episodes.
Collect contact information from the persons as well, so that you can share the episode featuring the interview with them for more exposure once uploaded.
These things should help you get the most out of any event you attend.
If you have other methods for covering events. let me know in the comments below. Also, feel free to share any questions.