Podcasting is still a relatively new medium when examined from a lead generation marketing perspective. A podcast is basically the method of distributing an audio or video file over the Internet using RSS formats for playback on mobile devices or personal computers. It differs from streamcasting however, as the RSS technology allows the podcast to be automatically downloaded to the subscriber.

Podcasting has lead generation abilities in a couple of ways.

First off, in order to receive these podcasts, a user must register with a website. Therefore, the website is able to collect various marketing information such as names and email addresses. Now the provider has established communication with the user and can probe for more specific marketing information. This information can then be used to target these individuals with marketing messages about other podcasts that they feel might be of interest to them. The podcast provider has now generated a lead.

To take lead generation even further, by subscribing to particular podcasts a user is essentially creating a profile of their interests. This can be used to target specific individuals with specific marketing messages about specific products that coincide with their interests.

Lead generation marketing has many possibilities with this new form of media. Leads can be generated for the podcast provider for other relevant podcasts or they can be distributed to affiliates whose products are line with the interests of the users. Either way, it has potential to be an excellent lead generation marketing tool.

As podcasts become more popular and widely used, marketing managers will do everything in their power to maximize its effectiveness as being a lead generation marketing tool.