Are Podcasts The Most Underrated Format for L&D?

In recent years, podcasts have surged in popularity, with 504.9 million global listeners and growing. Their accessibility and ability to be consumed while multitasking make them appealing. This trend presents opportunities for leveraging podcasts in corporate training and development initiatives, offering unique benefits worth exploring.

What are podcasts??

A podcast is an audio show available for listening or download online, originating from the combination of "iPod" and "broadcast." Initially for radio broadcasts on iPods, podcasts have evolved into diverse audio series covering various topics. From self-help to thriller stories, podcasts cater to a wide range of interests. They're accessible to anyone with recording equipment and ideas, requiring no broadcasting license, making them a versatile and free platform for content creation and distribution.

The Rise of Podcasts in L&D

L&D departments worldwide are embracing podcasts for training, offering cost-effective alternatives to in-person sessions. Utilizing accessible mediums, such as podcasts, enables widespread dissemination of workplace learning content. Below are some popular L&D podcasts:

• The digital adoption show
• The learning leader show
• The overnight trainer

The popularity of these shows us two things - There is a growing demand for learning through audio tools like podcasts, and people seem to enjoy and prefer this method of learning.

Why has podcasting become a popular medium for learning?

Podcasts are popular due to accessibility, intimacy, and convenience. They're easily accessible with an internet connection, fostering intimacy through conversational formats, and offer a break from screen time, making learning more convenient and engaging.

Time-saving benefits of podcasts for L&D

In today's fast-paced world, maximizing productivity is crucial. Podcasts offer a convenient solution for learning on the go, fitting into busy schedules with flexible listening options. Whether during a short break or a longer workout session, podcasts enable independent learning without requiring dedicated time for sitting down and studying.

Reduced time in training

Traditional employee training in office settings can be time-consuming, often requiring attendance at lengthy presentations or workshops. However, podcasts offer a solution by condensing material into easily digestible forms accessible anytime, anywhere. Learners can proceed at their own pace, accommodating different learning styles and preferences.

Continuous learning

Consistency is vital for learning, say top researchers. Podcasts enable convenient, frictionless learning anytime, anywhere, fostering continuous learning. Even just 10 minutes of learning keeps the cycle going, making podcasts a valuable addition to microlearning strategies.

Here are a few practices to set up a workplace podcast

To minimize the risk of failure in internal podcasts, Fortune 500 companies follow key practices:

1. Set clear goals: Identify suitable training topics and materials for podcasts.
2. Understand the audience: Tailor content to meet employees' expectations and needs.
3. Create relevant, high-quality content: Ensure content adds value and aids career development.
4. Feature top executives: Interview-style episodes with company leaders boost engagement and traction.

Tools involved in creating a simple and minimal podcast?

• Microphone: Affordable options available on Amazon suffice initially.
• Recording and editing software: Audacity is free and suitable for basic editing. Adobe Audition offers more advanced features for a price.
• Hosting platform: Anchor provides free hosting and distribution to major platforms. Libsyn offers paid hosting with customizable features and storage options.

Conclusion

Podcasts are digital audio files accessible online, increasingly popular for learning. They offer accessibility, convenience, and intimacy for learners. Organizations benefit from time-saving flexibility and continuous learning. To thrive, they must embrace new formats beyond traditional methods, offering diverse learning mediums for learners to progress at their own pace.