Matt Bacak wrote a blog post about the value of blogs and podcasts for corporate promotion. You can read it here.

The point in his entry that I find most remarkable is this statement:

“People read your Blogs not necessarily just for the content, but for your personality. If they like your personality then they will continue to read your Blog. If they don’t like your personality then they may read your Blog once and leave it. So let your personality shine through in your Blog if you want to keep readers that you want to target.

The same personality theory applies to podcasts. If you entertain people and they are having a good time then the number of podcast listeners you have will soar.”

I assumed early and incorrectly when launching Personal Life Media that a well-produced podcast rich with targeted content would generate more audience than a marginally-produced, unedited (one take wonder) folksy podcast with personality.

I was wrong.

The secret formula to success IS at Matt says - personality. Imbue your show with personality and with germane content and you just may have a hit.

Listeners want education and entertainment. To be a good podcaster, you must be your true self and let it shine through. Listeners want to connect with you as a human, they want to like you, they want to know not just your opinions, but tidbits about your life and what shaped your values.

Whether it’s Adam Curry, C.C. Chapman, Christopher Penn, Jen Bucket, the Diva Girls, KFC the Skydiver, Britney Mason, or Dr. Patti, the common denominator is a really delightful personality.

So if you’re planning to blog or podcast to generate more leads for your business, as Matt Bacak recommends, don’t forget to bring yourself in all your glory to your effort.

Happy New Year. Here’s to celebrating each of us as amazing individuals.