Sunday, August 26, 2007
Podcasting - Is It Worth It?
I’ve started podcasting...thought it would be easy because I consider myself a quick study. Ha!
Here is what I encountered:
* writing the podcasts - that is the easy part
* downloading software to record the podcast - great, unless it’s a beta version
* recording the podcast - it’s important to know which input plug to use (headset vs microphone)
* downloading the interface software - I prefer things to happen by magic...not more downloads
* editing the podcast - you’ve gotta have this so you don’t sound like a dork
After days of trouble-shooting failure and angst, the worst part of me showed up (it’s inside you, too, admit it). The part that starts sending out terse emails, demands immediate fixes, and runs over the feelings of others.
Sound like a team leader under stress? Sure it does! Learning anything new brings out both the worst and best in us. When your “worst” shows up with team members it’s bad, but it’s also fixable. A sincere apology for your bad behavior - “I’m truly sorry!” - is the start and goes a long way to restoring relationships. Time heals almost everything. Give time time.
Is podcasting worth it? Yes - in this day of multiple information outlets it’s another way to get out your message. Was it worth learning? Yes, but I also learned to leave the producing of a quality podcast with the team member who is most experienced. As a team leader, you need to be aware of what goes on in your team—you don’t need to complete each task yourself.
Until next time...live like you mean it!
Marjorie