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How to increase mic confidence when podcasting? The first steps to launching a podcast is daunting. For instance, not knowing which topics to discuss or how to record clear audio into your newly purchased microphone can be a major source of anxiety. Moreover, if you’re a beginner, mic confidence might not be your forte and the idea of sharing your ideas with the world is frightening. Even worse is getting things set up just right only to be faced with self-doubt, uncertainty and reluctance.
Newbie podcasters are met with a slew of new podcast platforms, all of which offer different packages, while dealing with the task of hashing out quality episodes on a regular basis. Like most abilities, mic confidence is a skill that is acquired through practice.
Here are some recommendations on how to increase mic confidence when podcasting.
What Exactly is Mic Confidence?
Mic confidence is simply having the ability to effectively convey your message to your listener. Other components such as sound clarity, audio quality and podcast structure all play a role in what is known as mic confidence. For the most part, mic confidence is exhibited by seasoned professionals who have taken years to perfect their craft.
Veteran podcasters are in a state of flow.
Their content is easily digestible. They stick to a format that is clearly outlined, road-tested and has become familiar with listeners. New and old-listeners alike find these podcasts relatable and are likely willing to share them with others. The good news is that with a little practice, you too can acquire mic confidence that will inspire others to take action.
Smile When You’re Talking
Experienced public speakers will sometimes smile as they’re speaking. The technique, used by radio talk show hosts, is said to convey friendliness, approachability and warmth.
Try it for yourself. It really works.
Put on a smile while talking into your microphone and upon playback, you will notice just how much lighter and organic your speech suddenly feels. Intrinsically, you’ll be letting go of any anxieties that may be brewing as you run through your podcast. Smiling tricks your brain into thinking that all is well and that there is nothing to worry about. After all, as humans we tend to smile whenever we’re in control of a situation.
Be Yourself
Before even acquiring mic confidence, ask yourself why you’re starting a podcast. Is it because you have an opinion worth sharing? Do you have a voice to share with the world?
Are you in it for the money or are you seeking some level of fame?
Irregardless of what motivates you, it's important be yourself.
It’s easy to emulate the style of veteran podcasters we’ve all come to respect. Sure, you can always use these legends as a reference, but in the end, being yourself and finding your true voice is the way to build an audience. WIth patience, dedication and consistency your inner-podcast voice will begin to emerge.
Use Talking Points
Great podcasters come prepared. What appears to be a seamless narration is a result of extensive research and preparation; hence a podcast planning outline. Once you’ve narrowed down a subject matter, be sure to jot down talking points in case you hit a wall and don’t know what to say next. Also, remember that you can pause at anytime to gather your thoughts and re record missed takes. You can always tackle the most obvious errors later during post-production. Read our How To Edit A Podcast article for easy to follow audio editing guidelines that will have you sounding like a pro.
Choose a Good Microphone
A great microphone goes a long way. The good news is that there are several good quality microphones on the market. We recommend Blue Yeti’s microphone Best Microphone For Podcast. It’s a versatile USB-based mic that offers a variety of options suited to single hosting and guest interviews. Additionally, it includes polar patterns and a stylish exterior to boot while offering an easy to use plug n play setup. You can find an in-depth review of Blue's Yeti microphone which we've labelled as the Best Microphone for Podcast
Remember that a good microphone can only do so much so be sure to follow your mic’s instruction manual on how to record the best sound. As a general rule, be sure to set the (gain) volume of the input to a reasonable level so that you’re not overloading the input and causing unwanted clipping, a common faux-pas with beginners that is characterized by an unpleasant distortion that makes your recording sound amateurish and crunchy.
In the meantime, read up on basic voice recording techniques. We've published a complete How To Record Voice Overs article which outlines a step by step guide to cleaner voice recording.
As previously mentioned, take a few moments to brush up on your microphone’s instruction manual. There you will find useful tips on how to get the best recording. We’re covered a detail article on How to Records Voice Overs
Record with Headphones
Headphones are useful for boosting mic confidence. How? While some podcasters don’t use headphones to record, others argue that hearing yourself while you record is helpful in detecting bad audio issues. For instance, unwanted pops and background noises, inaudible to the human ear, may find their way into your recording. Having a trusted pair of headphones ensures you’re capturing a clean recording. Lastly, you don’t have to invest in an expensive set of headphones. A simple pair will suffice.
Use a Pop Filter
Are you tired of hearing those sudden bursts of air in your recordings? These are called 'plosives' and appear when you utter words starting with 'p' and 'b'. They are jarring for any listener especially headphone audiophiles so be sure to avoid them. A pop filter, placed in between your micrphone and lips, will reduce plosives. The pop filter effectively scatters the outcoming air, reducing the sudden overload of the microphone capsule, the part of the mic responsible for vibrating according to how much sound pressure it receives. Although not inherently responsible for instilling mic confidence, a plosive-free recording will translate to a cleaner and more enjoyable listening experience: not to mention a professional sounding podcast.
Pretend That You’re Having a Conversation with Someone Else
Get into the habit of thinking that you’re talking to one person. Use words such as “you” and opposed to everyone. This makes your delivery much more personal. Microphone confidence comes with time and practice. Be consistent and don’t give up.
Talk About Topics that are of Interest to you.
When you’re first starting off, it’s tempting to cover trendy subject matters in hopes of garnering attention. However, most podcasters would argue that it’s best to talk about content that you find interesting. You’ll have an easier time discussing the ins and outs of topics that are meaningful. In time, listeners with similar interests will flock to hear your opinions, perspective and delivery. You can always branch off into subject matters that are more ethereal in nature, nonetheless start with topics that you’re confident and knowledgeable at dispensing. You can find more information about podcast planning, outlines, scripts and free-form here.
Review and Improve
Review your podcast and take notes on how you can improve your subsequent episodes. If your audio is lacking, find creative ways on improving the sound. Perhaps your voice is unclear and drowned out by excessing room noise. Try acoustic room treatment to reduce reverberations that are causing indiscernible audio. Have too many plosives? Reduce those unwanted sounds by using a pop filter. Is your audio clipping? Reduce the gain to avoid clipping your audio signal. Your aim is to implement at least one new measure to improve mic confidence. Small changes, made every episode, will lead to better recordings. Soon enough, you’ll know exactly which set up works best for your situation.
Conclusion
One thing is for sure, if you don’t start your podcast you will never know what could have been. Take the plunge and get started. You don’t have to be perfect at first. Even the most experienced podcasters had a rocky start… poor audio quality, lack of focus, lots of unfocused discussion until they developed their stride. Lastly, have fun and keep things exciting. Avoid falling into what is familiar by setting up challenges and ways in which you can overcome obstacles. Podcasting, when done well, is truly rewarding.
