Podcasting: A Powerful Post-Conference Follow-Up Tool

 

Picture this: You’ve just returned from an exhilarating industry conference, your phone full of notes about the people you met, and your mind buzzing with new ideas to improve your marketing and operations. But as the days tick by, those promising connections start to fade, and you’re left wondering how to keep the momentum going. Enter podcasting – your secret weapon for turning fleeting conference encounters into lasting, profitable relationships.

In today’s digital age, standing out from the crowd is more crucial than ever. While everyone else is sending generic follow-up emails or LinkedIn requests, you have the opportunity to captivate your new contacts with engaging, valuable content that keeps you top-of-mind long after the conference has ended.

Podcasting offers a unique blend of intimacy and authority, allowing you to share your expertise, insights, and personality in a way that resonates with your audience. It’s like having a one-on-one conversation with each listener, building trust and credibility with every episode.

But how exactly can you leverage podcasting to transform those casual conference connections into loyal clients or service partners? And what strategies should you employ to create content that truly makes an impact?

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the power of podcasting as a post-conference follow-up tool, dive into the art of crafting engaging episodes, and provide you with actionable steps to implement your own podcasting follow-up strategy. Whether you’re a seasoned podcaster or a complete novice, you’ll discover how to harness this medium to grow your network, showcase your expertise, nurture your connections, and ultimately, boost your bottom line.

So, grab your headphones and get ready to unlock the potential of podcasting in your post-conference follow-up arsenal. It’s time to turn those business cards into business opportunities!

The Power of (Video) Podcasting for Post-Conference Follow-Up

Podcasting isn’t just a trendy medium – it’s a powerful tool that can revolutionize your post-conference follow-up strategy, whether you’re recording audio, video, or both. Let’s dive into why podcasting is the secret sauce for turning those fleeting conference connections into lasting, profitable relationships.

Oh, and before we get started, here’s the toolkit to help you through this: 

Stay Top-of-Mind with Valuable Content

In the sea of business cards and LinkedIn connections, how do you ensure you’re not just another face in the crowd? The answer lies in providing consistent, valuable content that keeps you at the forefront of your new contacts’ minds.

Imagine this: You meet Sarah, a potential client, at a marketing conference. Instead of sending a generic “Nice to meet you” email, you invite her to listen to your latest podcast episode discussing the conference’s key takeaways. Suddenly, you’re not just another business card in her stack – you’re a valuable resource offering insights she can apply to her own work.

By creating podcast content that addresses industry trends, challenges, and solutions, you position yourself as a thought leader. Your voice becomes a regular part of your audience’s professional development, ensuring you’re top-of-mind when they need services in your field.

Build Trust and Credibility Through Podcasting

Trust is the foundation of any successful business relationship. Podcasting offers a unique opportunity to build that trust in a way that few other mediums can match.

When listeners tune into your podcast, they’re inviting you into their personal space – whether it’s during their commute, workout, or quiet time at home. This intimate connection allows you to showcase your expertise, share your personality, and demonstrate your commitment to providing value.

Consider John, a software developer who started a podcast after a tech conference. By discussing complex coding concepts in an accessible way and sharing his own experiences, he quickly gained a loyal following. His podcast became a go-to resource for developers, establishing him as a trusted authority in his field.

Remember, consistency is key. Regular episodes show your dedication and reliability, further enhancing your credibility in the eyes (or ears) of your followers.

Leverage Podcasting to Turn Connections into Clients

The ultimate goal of your post-conference follow-up is to convert those new connections into paying clients and profitable partnerships. Podcasting provides a subtle yet effective way to achieve this without resorting to pushy sales tactics.

By creating content that addresses your ideal client’s pain points and offers solutions, you’re demonstrating your value proposition in a natural, non-intrusive way. Your podcast becomes a showcase of your expertise, giving potential clients a taste of what it’s like to work with you.

Take Lisa, a financial advisor who met several small business owners at a conference. In her follow-up podcast episodes, she discussed common financial challenges faced by small businesses and offered practical advice. This approach not only provided value to her listeners but also naturally highlighted her services without coming across as salesy.

Moreover, podcasting allows you to nurture relationships over time. As your audience becomes more familiar with your voice, ideas, and expertise, they’re more likely to reach out when they need your services. It’s a long-term strategy that can yield significant returns, turning those initial conference handshakes into lasting, profitable client relationships.

By harnessing the power of podcasting in your post-conference follow-up strategy, you’re not just staying in touch – you’re providing ongoing value, building trust, and positioning yourself as the go-to expert in your field. It’s time to turn up the volume on your follow-up game!

Crafting Engaging Podcast Episodes for Conference Follow-Up

Now that we understand the power of podcasting for post-conference follow-up, let’s dive into the art of creating compelling content that will keep your new connections coming back for more. The key is to strike a balance between informative and entertaining, all while showcasing your expertise and the valuable insights gained from the conference.

Discuss Trending Industry Topics from the Conference

Conferences are hotbeds of cutting-edge ideas and emerging trends. Capitalize on this by creating episodes that delve deeper into the hot topics that had everyone buzzing.

For instance, let’s say you attended a digital marketing conference where AI-powered content creation was the talk of the town. Your follow-up podcast could explore:

• The potential impact of AI on content marketing strategies
• Ethical considerations of using AI-generated content
• Practical ways to integrate AI tools into existing workflows

By addressing these trending topics, you’re not only providing value to your listeners but also demonstrating your finger-on-the-pulse awareness of industry developments. This positions you as a forward-thinking professional who stays ahead of the curve.

Highlight Solutions and Insights Shared at the Conference

Conferences are FULL of practical solutions and innovative insights, whether you only attend the keynote, sit in every breakout session possible, or spend your time bouncing between conversations in the hallway. Your podcast is the perfect platform to unpack these gems and make them accessible to a wider audience.

Consider creating a series of episodes, each focusing on a key takeaway from the conference. For example:

“In today’s episode, we’re diving into the game-changing channel and brand-building methods shared by Tae Kim at Fincon 2024. Here are three of his biggest takeaways from his journey toward 300K YouTube subscribers. I have a few ideas on how you can implement those takeaways in your business, regardless of your industry.”

This approach not only provides actionable value to your listeners but also showcases your ability to synthesize and apply complex information. It’s a subtle yet effective way to demonstrate your expertise and problem-solving skills.

Interview Influential Speakers and Guests from the Conference

What better way to add value and credibility to your podcast than by featuring the very experts who spoke at the conference? Reach out to speakers, panelists, or even fellow attendees who had interesting perspectives to share.

Imagine the impact of an episode introduction like this:

“Today, we have a special treat for you. Joining us is Bernadette Joy, the keynote speaker from Fincon ’24, and debt-free millionaire herself. We’ll be diving deeper into her impressive journey from money coaching to published author and paid speaker and exploring which of her methods or revenue streams might also work for your business.”

These interviews serve multiple purposes:

• They provide exclusive content that your listeners can’t get anywhere else
• They elevate your status by association with industry leaders
• They offer a chance to build stronger relationships with influential figures in your field

Remember, the goal is to create content that your conference connections (and broader audience) find irresistibly valuable. By discussing trending topics, highlighting practical solutions, and featuring influential guests, you’re not just following up – you’re providing a compelling reason for your new contacts to stay engaged with you long after the conference has ended.

With these strategies in your podcasting toolkit, you’re well on your way to creating episodes that will keep your audience coming back for more, eagerly anticipating what insights you’ll share next. So, grab that microphone and start turning those conference experiences into podcast gold!

Implementing Your Post-Conference Podcasting Strategy

You’ve got the knowledge, you’ve got the inspiration, and now it’s time to put your post-conference podcasting plan into action. This section will guide you through the practical steps of turning your conference experience into engaging podcast content that resonates with your new connections and beyond.

Plan and Record Podcast Episodes on Relevant Conference Themes

The key to successful post-conference podcasting is striking while the iron is hot. Don’t let those fresh insights and exciting ideas fade away!

Start by reviewing your conference notes and identifying the most compelling themes. Create a content calendar that outlines:

• Episode topics based on conference highlights
• Key points to cover in each episode
• Potential guest speakers or interviewees

For example, if you attended Financial Creators’ conference (like Fincon), your episode lineup might look like this:

1. Episode 1: “5 Game-Changing SEO Strategies Unveiled at Fincon 2024”
2. Episode 2: “The Future of Social Media Marketing: Insights from Financial Influencers”
3. Episode 3: Interview with Yanely Espinal, Speaker on “Content, Not Clickbait”

Once you have your plan, set aside dedicated time for recording. Remember, the goal is to release content while the conference is still fresh in everyone’s minds. Aim to have your first episode ready within a week of the event’s conclusion.

Send Personalized Follow-Up Emails Linking to Your Podcast Episodes

Now that you’ve created valuable content, it’s time to share it with your new connections. But forget about generic follow-ups – we’re going for personalized, value-packed outreach.

Craft emails that:

• Reference specific conversations you had at the conference
• Highlight podcast episodes relevant to their interests or challenges
• Offer additional insights or resources related to the episode content

Here’s a template to get you started:

“Hi [Name],

It was great connecting with you at [Conference Name] last week. Our discussion about [specific topic] really got me thinking, and I’ve just released a podcast episode that dives deeper into this area. I thought you might find it interesting.

[Link to podcast episode]

In the episode, I explore [brief description of content]. I’d love to hear your thoughts on this perspective.

Looking forward to staying in touch!

[Your Name]”

This approach shows that you value the connection, remember the conversation, and are proactively providing relevant, useful content.

Promote Your Conference-Related Podcast Episodes on Social Media

Don’t limit your podcast promotion to email – leverage the power of social media to expand your reach and engage with a broader audience.

Here are some effective strategies:

• Repurpose your content: Clip and share reels, YouTube Shorts, or quote graphics from your episodes to pique interest.
• Use relevant hashtags: Include conference-specific hashtags to tap into ongoing conversations.
• Tag speakers or guests: If you’ve featured or mentioned industry figures, tag them in your posts to increase visibility.
• Engage with your audience: Respond to comments and encourage discussions around your podcast topics.

Remember to tailor your approach to each platform. LinkedIn might be ideal for in-depth discussions, while Twitter could be perfect for quick teasers and engagement.

By implementing these strategies, you’re not just creating content – you’re building a dynamic, engaging follow-up system that keeps you connected with your new contacts and positions you as a valuable resource in your industry. So, get planning, start recording, and watch as your post-conference podcasting efforts transform those initial handshakes into lasting professional relationships!

Measuring the Success of Your Post-Conference Podcasting Efforts

You’ve put in the work, created compelling content, and shared it with your conference connections. But how do you know if your podcasting strategy is truly paying off? It’s time to dive into the world of metrics and feedback to gauge the impact of your efforts and refine your approach for even better results.

Track Podcast Downloads and Engagement Metrics

The first step in measuring your podcast’s success is to look at the numbers. Most podcast hosting platforms provide robust analytics that can give you valuable insights into your audience’s behavior.

Key metrics to monitor include:

• Download numbers: How many times have your episodes been downloaded?
• Listener retention: Are people sticking around for the entire episode?
• Geographic data: Where are your listeners located?
• Device types: Are most people tuning in on mobile or desktop?
• Click-throughs: How many people are clicking through the links in the show notes?

For example, let’s say you notice that your episode on “AI in Marketing Financial Services” has twice as many downloads as your other content. This could indicate that this topic resonates strongly with your audience, suggesting you should create more content in this area.

Pay attention to trends over time. Are your download numbers and email subscribers increasing with each episode? This could be a sign that your conference follow-up strategy is working, and your audience is growing.

Related: Listen to my episode about the 8 Non-Traditional ROI Metrics you’re probably missing – Creating ROI with your Podcast.

Monitor Client Acquisition and Revenue Generated from Conference Connections

While download numbers are important, the ultimate measure of success for many businesses is the impact on the bottom line. Keep track of how your podcasting efforts translate into tangible business results.

Consider implementing these strategies:

• Use unique tracking links: Create special URLs for your podcast that you share only with conference connections. This allows you to see how many of them are engaging with your content.
• Track conversions: Monitor how many podcast listeners become leads or clients. You might use a CRM system to note which clients came from your conference networking and subsequent podcast outreach.
• Calculate ROI: Compare the revenue generated from these new clients against the time and resources invested in your podcasting efforts.

For instance, imagine you spent $1,000 on conference attendance and podcast production, but landed a $10,000 contract with a client who first connected with you at the conference and then became a regular podcast listener. That’s a clear indicator of a successful strategy!

Gather Feedback and Testimonials from Podcast Listeners

Numbers tell part of the story, but direct feedback from your audience can provide invaluable insights and powerful social proof.

Here’s how to gather this qualitative data:

• Encourage listener feedback: At the end of each episode, invite listeners to share their thoughts via email or social media.
• Conduct surveys: Use tools like Google Forms or SurveyMonkey to create short questionnaires about your podcast content and format.
• Reach out personally: Contact some of your conference connections who’ve engaged with your podcast for a quick chat about their experience.

When you receive positive feedback, don’t be shy about asking if you can use it as a testimonial. A quote like this can be powerful:

“Jane’s podcast has been a game-changer for my business. The insights she shared from Fincon helped me implement a new marketing strategy that increased our leads by 30%!” – John Smith, CEO of Money for Normal People

This kind of testimonial not only validates your efforts but also serves as compelling evidence of your podcast’s value for potential listeners and clients.

Remember, measuring success is an ongoing process. Regularly review your metrics, adjust your strategy based on the data, and always keep your audience’s needs at the forefront. By doing so, you’ll continually improve your post-conference podcasting efforts, turning more of those conference connections into loyal listeners and valuable clients.

Listen to this podcast episode for some ideas on podcast metrics you’ll want to measure: Podcasting ROI for Your Business | Ep 30

With these measurement strategies in place, you’re not just podcasting – you’re creating a data-driven, results-oriented follow-up machine that proves its worth with every episode. So, start crunching those numbers and collecting that feedback. Your most successful post-conference strategy yet is just a few metrics away!

Conclusion

As we wrap up our deep dive into the world of post-conference podcasting, it’s clear that this strategy is more than just a novel way to follow up – it’s a powerful tool for building lasting professional relationships and establishing yourself as a thought leader in your industry.

By leveraging the unique intimacy and accessibility of podcasting, you’re not just staying in touch with your conference connections; you’re providing ongoing value, sharing insights, and nurturing relationships in a way that traditional follow-up methods simply can’t match.

Remember, the key elements of a successful post-conference podcasting strategy are:

• Relevance: Crafting content that directly addresses the hot topics and key takeaways from the conference
• Consistency: Regularly producing episodes to keep your audience engaged and position yourself as a reliable resource
• Personalization: Tailoring your outreach to make each connection feel valued and understood
• Measurement: Tracking your success through both quantitative metrics and qualitative feedback

As you implement this strategy, you may find yourself transforming from a conference attendee into a respected voice in your field. That person you briefly chatted with at the coffee break? They could become your most loyal listener, your biggest advocate, or even your next major client.

So, don’t let those conference connections fade away. Grab your microphone, share your insights, and watch as your network grows and your influence expands. Your post-conference podcast isn’t just content – it’s the beginning of countless professional opportunities.

Remember, in the world of business relationships, consistency and value are king. By regularly showing up in your connections’ podcast feeds with insightful, relevant content, you’re not just following up – you’re standing out.

Now, it’s time to take action. Plan your first post-conference episode, reach out to those new connections, and start turning those business cards into a thriving, engaged audience. Your future self (and your business) will thank you for it.

Happy podcasting, and here’s to your continued success!

FAQs

How soon after a conference should I start podcasting for follow-up?

The golden rule here is: strike while the iron is hot. Ideally, you should aim to release your first post-conference episode within 1-2 weeks of the event’s conclusion. This timeframe ensures that the conference content is still fresh in everyone’s minds, including yours!

Here’s a quick timeline to consider:

• Days 1-3 post-conference: Review your notes and plan your episodes
• Days 4-7: Record and edit your first episode
• Days 8-10: Publish and promote your episode

Remember, you don’t need to wait until your episode is live to start your follow-up. Send those personalized emails right away, mentioning that you’re working on a podcast episode they might find interesting. This creates anticipation and shows your proactivity.

What equipment do I need to start a podcast for conference follow-up?

The good news is, you don’t need a professional recording studio to create a high-quality podcast. Here’s a basic setup that can get you started:

• A good microphone: The Blue Yeti USB mic is a popular, affordable option that delivers great sound quality.
• Headphones: Any decent pair will do, but closed-back headphones are ideal for recording.
• Recording and editing software: Audacity is a free, user-friendly option for beginners.
• A quiet space: This could be a small room in your house or even a closet lined with blankets for sound absorption.

As you grow your podcast, you might want to invest in more advanced equipment. But remember, content is king. A compelling message recorded on basic equipment will always outperform mediocre content from a top-tier studio.

How can I encourage conference connections to listen to my podcast episodes?

Getting your new connections to tune in is all about providing value and making it easy for them to listen. Here are some effective strategies:

1. Personalize your outreach: When you follow up, mention specific conversations you had and how your podcast episode relates to their interests or challenges.
2. Offer a “taste” of the content: Include a short, intriguing quote or audio clip from the episode in your follow-up email.
3. Make it convenient: Provide direct links to your podcast on various platforms (Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc.) so they can listen on their preferred app.
4. Create episode summaries: For busy professionals, a bullet-point list of key takeaways can be a great teaser.
5. Leverage social proof: If you’ve had positive feedback from other listeners, share it! People are more likely to tune in if others found it valuable.

For example, you might say: “Hi Sarah, great chatting about SEO for your podcast at Fincon. I’ve just released a podcast episode diving deeper into this topic, including some strategies you mentioned you were interested in. Here’s a preview [link]. The full episode is available here [link] – I’d love to hear your thoughts!”

Remember, the key is to focus on the value you’re offering, not just promoting your podcast. If your content genuinely helps your connections solve problems or gain insights, they’ll keep coming back for more!