01/10: Can Podcasting replace the corporate memo
Sometimes while I fly, I like to put on the noise canceling headphones and catch up on my listening. My ipod is loaded with podcasts that keep me up to date on the latest happenings in my areas of interest. Every time I synch up my iPod, any new podcasts are automatically added to my pod, much like my tivo records my favorite cooking shows.
A few of my favorite podcasts are:
- HBR’s IdeaCast
- NPR: Most EmAiled stories of the Day
- The Accidental Creative
- Mad Money with Jim Cramer (Jim and I used to sell Ice Cream at the Vet in Philly)
One new one is an internal podcast on corporate vision from IBM that the folks at IBM graciously let me listen to despite not being an IBM’er. I had the distinct pleasure of spending the day in IBM’s Hursley Lab near Winchester, England. I strongly recommend anyone who can take a tour to do so, followed by diner at the nearby Whitestar Tavern!
At IBM, they have encouraged their business leaders to create internal podcasts (or privatecasts) for their employees. These podcasts provide narratives from the executives on a wide range of topics, from new technologies, to leadership vision and more, all in the voice and tone of leaders. Employees can subscribe to relevant podcasts and listen to these messages while at work or on the treadmill.
While I can’t reveal much from my trip to Hursley, my gracious hosts allowed me to share the following guidelines for podcasting that was given to its employees. I think this will be helpful for any organization considering creating its own podcasts.
IBM Corporate Podcasting Guidelines:
Do not podcast IBM Confidential material.
Be mindful not only of what you say, but how you say it. Sometimes the way you say something -- the tone of your voice, such as a hint of sarcasm -- can be as revealing as what you say.
Protect your privacy and the privacy of others. Make sure you don't record any person without his or her consent and awareness.
Set the bar as high as you can for audio production and content quality. External podcasts that present topics or points of view relevant to IBM's business or broader corporate interests inevitably reflect on the company's brand.
There may be some invitations to participate in non-IBM podcasts that warrant IBM Communications' involvement. You should treat these the same way you would treat an interview request from a reporter. If you're in doubt, be sure to talk to your local Communications people to discuss the opportunity before agreeing to participate.
Identify your podcast as the voice of an individual or small group within the company, not the "official" voice of the company.
Before creating a podcast, listen to some. Experience what podcasting is like from the audience's perspective. Go out and listen to some podcasts. What do you think works well? What do you dislike? What is it that you have to say -- and is this the right medium in which to say it?
A few of my favorite podcasts are:
- HBR’s IdeaCast
- NPR: Most EmAiled stories of the Day
- The Accidental Creative
- Mad Money with Jim Cramer (Jim and I used to sell Ice Cream at the Vet in Philly)
At IBM, they have encouraged their business leaders to create internal podcasts (or privatecasts) for their employees. These podcasts provide narratives from the executives on a wide range of topics, from new technologies, to leadership vision and more, all in the voice and tone of leaders. Employees can subscribe to relevant podcasts and listen to these messages while at work or on the treadmill.
While I can’t reveal much from my trip to Hursley, my gracious hosts allowed me to share the following guidelines for podcasting that was given to its employees. I think this will be helpful for any organization considering creating its own podcasts.
IBM Corporate Podcasting Guidelines:
Do not podcast IBM Confidential material.
Be mindful not only of what you say, but how you say it. Sometimes the way you say something -- the tone of your voice, such as a hint of sarcasm -- can be as revealing as what you say.
Protect your privacy and the privacy of others. Make sure you don't record any person without his or her consent and awareness.
Set the bar as high as you can for audio production and content quality. External podcasts that present topics or points of view relevant to IBM's business or broader corporate interests inevitably reflect on the company's brand.
There may be some invitations to participate in non-IBM podcasts that warrant IBM Communications' involvement. You should treat these the same way you would treat an interview request from a reporter. If you're in doubt, be sure to talk to your local Communications people to discuss the opportunity before agreeing to participate.
Identify your podcast as the voice of an individual or small group within the company, not the "official" voice of the company.
Before creating a podcast, listen to some. Experience what podcasting is like from the audience's perspective. Go out and listen to some podcasts. What do you think works well? What do you dislike? What is it that you have to say -- and is this the right medium in which to say it?
