Keep Your Podcast Intro and Outro Brief by Pat Rullo
With the Positive Change Podcast Awards in the final judging phase for this round, I am in podcast mode. I have listened to more podcasts this week than most people do in a year. Even though I am not a judge, I listen to every entry – multiple episodes too. So with that, I’d like to discuss the importance of a brief intro, outro, and accompanying music.
An intro and outro are essential to every podcast episode as they set the tone, provide context, and leave a lasting impression. These two elements are responsible for initially hooking the listener’s attention and leaving them satisfied.
A concise intro grabs the audience’s attention and communicates what the podcast is about and should introduce the podcast host, the name of the podcast, and a brief overview of the gist of the podcast. A catchy intro can also help to build anticipation making the listener interested to stick around. Consistency throughout all episodes can help create a loyal following and brand familiarity.
An outro is just as crucial. The outro should be used to wrap up the episode by thanking the listener for tuning in and encouraging them to leave a review or rating. This leave-behind or call to action is an opportunity to ask them to share the episode on social media or with friends and family.
Do not underestimate the power of an outro. An impactful outro can leave the listener with a lasting impression, increasing their chances of tuning into future episodes, which helps build a loyal fan base. And even though I am using the word ‘listeners’ as I write this, please do not call your audience ‘listeners’ or ‘audience’ or anything else that leaves them feeling like a non-person. A simple – Thank you for joining us today … works nicely and feels like you are speaking directly to them.
A short music clip is another critical element of a successful intro and outro. Music helps to create a memorable and engaging experience. I use the words short and brief for a reason. If your audience wanted to hear 58 seconds of music, they could turn on the radio. It is quite risky to force someone to endure long bits of music unless your podcast topic is about music. They tuned in to hear what you have to say and not listen to music. Anything over 30 seconds of music and intro talk combined is just too much. I click off when I encounter a podcast with a minute of music before the host decides to speak.
So why is a short music clip so crucial in a podcast intro? Firstly, music can capture emotions and induce a certain feeling. Whether it’s a slow and gentle melody or an upbeat pop song, the right music can evoke excitement, nostalgia, relaxation, or any other emotion relevant to the podcast’s topics. The music also serves as a sonic cue for the listener. It signals the show’s start and helps establish a sense of familiarity and continuity across episodes.
So, what makes a good music clip for a podcast intro and outro? Ideally, the music should be short, catchy, and easy to remember. It should also be relevant to the podcast’s themes and tone. Try not to use music that is currently popular, or that is being used on other TV or radio ads. You don’t want your podcast confused with a pharmaceutical drug ad or anything else that is not yours. Original music is perfect for podcasts, as it will only be heard on your show.
And I understand that sharing sponsor information is essential. But again, forcing your listeners to hear long ramblings about your sponsor’s new gym mats or ice cream store in Spokane means nothing to a listener in Philly. Keep sponsor talk short and often. Mention them several times throughout the podcast and at the end instead of minutes up front. Include them generously in the show notes too.
With so many podcasts vying for attention, a great intro and outro with memorable music can make all the difference in attracting and retaining listeners. If your podcast intro and outro could use a tweak, make the changes now. Think brief. And when you consider it done, shorten it just a little bit more. Your listeners will silently thank you.
If you’d like me to listen, I’m happy to do so and will give you my honest thoughts and suggestions.
PR
