As the demand for online content grows, podcasts are becoming more popular, and audiences want to get information about topics they’re interested in. As a podcast host, you need to attract attention early and engage in your program to ensure a loyal fan base that grows with each recording. That’s why we asked 12 members of the Young Entrepreneur Council (YEC) how to make a podcast intro that will get listeners’ attention.
How to make a podcast intro: 12 tips
Here’s what the members of the YEC community say:
Pain points
“Right at the beginning, they should mention a pain point or a problem that their audience is experiencing. This will get their attention, because they will want to see if the people in the podcast have an insight into the ways to solve this problem. After all, people are looking for answers. “- John Rampton, Calendar
A teaser from the presentation
“When I start listening to a podcast, I’m often thrilled by a teaser that works similarly to a movie trailer. You want to give the listeners a little taste of what is included in the presentation or interview. It’s also good to start with something unexpected. For example, if you interview someone who is known, you start with the fact that people don’t know anything about that person. Kalin Kassabov, ProTexting
A few important snacks
“One of the podcasts I love, Manager Tools, starts each podcast with” We will answer these questions during this podcast. “This helps me understand what they are discussing and tells me that they put the listener first. You don’t track clicks with catchy subtitles… you need to know how to make a podcast intro that attracts.”- Alex Chamberlain, EasyLiving Home Care
Value added
“In the first 10 seconds, you should answer the question about the value of the podcast and tell you in the next 10 seconds why you are qualified to provide the solution that the podcast addresses. You lose people when you start with a long story or start with a non-sequitur. Keep it to the point and answer a question about a problem that is frequently asked in your business area. A high value is the key for how to make a podcast intro that captures listeners.” Matthew Capala, Search Decoder
A good question
“When was the last time someone asked a question that really caught your attention? Look, I want to get you to focus on what I’m writing, through the magical art of asking a good question. Asking the right question can be incredibly captivating and the difference between a short-lived interaction or a fan for life. This is a technique we often use in our podcast. “Mark Krassner, Expectful
A quote from the interview
“If it’s an interview-based podcast, I’ve found that the best catch when listening to an episode is that it contains an inspiring or thought-provoking quote from the interview. I think that when podcasters use a quote in the header of the show notes, they also get my attention. For podcasts that are not based on interviews, a short jingle is enough. Brian David Crane, Caller Smart Inc.
Statistics
“Starting with some dramatic numbers on a particular topic, people’s attention is being caught and they stop listening and seeing what your thoughts are on how to deal with this amazing statistic.” Drew Hendricks, Buttercup
A theme song
“A familiar and appealing musical intro can instantly increase your production value and attract more newcomers. Some of my favorite podcasts include a catchy opening song that makes the rest of the show easier for listeners. An excellent example is the intro that Dave Rubin uses before all episodes of the Ruby Report. “Bryce Welker, Beat The CPA
A tagline that summarizes the channel
“I think it’s important to have a slogan that sums up the mission of the podcast. It can be as simple as a few words describing the goal. The consistent summary of your show’s mission statement will connect listeners more closely to the show if they know the bigger purpose behind it. Jared Atchison, WPForms
Great content
“I have learned how important it is to captivate your audience in Jewish schools. If the rabbi who spoke to us did not get my attention within the first minute, I went out for the rest of the speech. The underlying principle is universal: all public speakers, including podcasters, must immediately provide compelling content to convince listeners that they remain engaged. Adam Mendler, Beverly Hills Chairs
A problem or disagreement
“Every good conversation starts with a problem or a disagreement for which two people are looking for a solution. If I think I can learn something and that I hear a bit of disagreement and diversity of perspectives, I’m immediately thrilled. Zev Herman, Superior Lighting
A promotional teaser
“If they get their podcast right, they’ve got a few sponsors and advertisers that are relevant to the topic. This advertisement should encourage listeners to keep up to date with the teaser for more information. Patrick Barnhill, Specialist ID, Inc.
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