5 Prep Steps to Creating an Awesome Audio Publicity Clip

By Marnie Swedberg

Including an audio clip on your website today is as essential as providing an email address used to be. Without one your website is outdated: You are viewed as behind-the-times.

Your audio clip should be 2-10 minutes long, jam-packed with action that keeps the listener involved, and should clearly display your ability to communicate about your favorite topic.

Hiring a pro, like Wayne Kelly is a great idea if you can afford it: An experience DJ will lend credibility and polish to your promo clip. However, if you can't afford $300, or don't want to go that route, try to think of someone you know who is articulate, has an outgoing personality and has a great voice. The two of you can literally create an audio clip over the phone for under $5.

I always use freeconference.com. Two people can call into an 800# and talk for up to 25 minutes for about $5. Now that's cheap advertising! Remember, 10 minutes maximum: so, if you don't have audio editing equipment, just keep the entire session under 10 minutes.

Once you understand your options, here are the steps that will insure your success:

1. Find the voice that motivates you. Remember the joke-telling principle that says, "Tell only those jokes which you think are hysterically funny"? Well, when cutting a promo audio, select only the voice that you think is a perfect match for your message. Choose a voice that energizes you personally.

2. Write a smash-hit introductory bio. You've got 10 seconds. If you grab their attention in the first 10, then they'll give you another 10, and so on. Learn the keys to writing a super intro: http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Marnie_Swedberg.

3. Provide your interviewer with talking points. Select three to seven key points that you want to discuss. Make sure that each point addresses a topic or aspect of a topic that ignites your passion big-time. Be sure that you are doing your promo audio for you're A#1 best topic.

4. Practice your delivery. This is not the time to be pass้! You need energy, enthusiasm and excellent content. Smile as you speak. Practice, practice, practice. Try to figure out in advance every question or angle an interviewer may address your topic. Craft 10-30 second "sound bite" answers that will leave your listeners eager to hear more from you.

5. On the day of the interview, relax and have fun. You have prepared, you have practiced, and you have perspired. Now it's time to play. Pretend that it's just you and the DJ over a cup of coffee. Be enthusiastic and personable. Behave as if you were telling him about the most exciting thing you've heard in years! Speak one-to-one with the DJ: Use his first name. If he is funny or insightful, mention it. Say something like, "Good question!" or "What a great idea!" The more relaxed and real you can be, the better your audio clip will serve you!

Marnie Swedberg is mentor and coach to over 500 public speakers. Visit her site at http://www.womenspeakers.com