What is a podcast description?
When going through the vast choice of podcasts offered by the many platforms, the first thing that grabs our attention is usually the image of the cover art. Second thing, we read the title, whether in the cover art itself or in the dedicated space just next to it. Third, if the previous ones have done their job properly, you must have clicked on the podcast that seemed the most promising, and there you’ve found a very short text, usually a few sentences, describing what the podcast is about or at least giving a rather clear idea of what to expect from it. That is the podcast description.
Key characteristics of a podcast description
Briefness: length is crucial, certain apps don’t allow more than 4000 characters, but you should use way less anyways. Between 120 and 170 words is the ideal length, especially given that most apps will cut off your text at around 130 characters, which makes a reason for the next key characteristics.
Conciseness and relevance: it must be clear from the start, you can’t afford to waste one word, so if your text is cut off, they should want to finish reading the remaining lines and click on “read more”. It should grab their attention from the beginning and it should be accurate and reflective of the content of your show
Keywords: it should contain keywords directly related to your podcast. This point is multipurpose, first for the sake of clarity and relevance, second, to increase your visibility in the results in the research bar
Engaging: it should be fluent, and written in a style that they’ll know they won’t get bored with you
The function of the podcast description
As a new podcaster, it’s important to do your best and some more to try to stand out in a sea of competitors. Everything must be carefully thought through and so if you’ve come this far, you must already have chosen your topic, your niche, and your title, and now a description is in order.
As we’ve seen, the description is most probably the third thing your audience will come across, but the first real chance for you to try to convince them to listen to your podcast. It’s what can make the difference, what shows them that it’s what they’re looking for and that it’s worth listening to.
After giving them an idea about what your podcast is about, you can use the description to give an idea about who you are. In fact, many podcasters choose to use it to also introduce themselves if they wish to. So, if you believe there are some details about yourself that should be included, don’t be shy and take advantage of this first contact between you and your audience!
Last, the keywords in your description, besides their main goal of attracting your target audience, also make it easier to find through search engines.
In the end, the description is essential for first, making it easier for the “machine” to find you and present you to the people, and then, convincing them that you are potentially valuable.
By Malika Aimouri
