Professional Podcasting #2: Mic Flags

Professional Podcasting #2: Mic Flags. Before we move on from microphones I want to cover an easy way to distinguish yourself from the pack: mic flags. I have often described the “magical” power of mic flags in presentations I have given. It constantly amazes me the power these small plastic cubes have. Once you properly outfit your microphone with a professionally produced mic flag, doors open. The reasons for investing in mic flags are overwhelming:

Branding: This is a great opportunity to get your branding image and logo out there. Think back to photos of just a microphone versus those with large easy to recognize logos or wording on their mic flags. Each photo is one more brand impression for you. This is especially important for video podcasts. This is an easy way to get your branding in every frame!

Recognition: If you do large roundtable, red carpet or media events, interview subjects want to know who they are talking to. Your mic flag identifies your affiliation and makes it easy for the interview subject(s) to remember. I’ve found that interview subjects seem more at ease when I approach them with the sort of clear identification that a mic flag provides.

Professionalism: Mic flags are used by all “professional” media. Again we can take a lesson from their decades of experience – trust them on this one. Once you have a mic flag, people assume that you are a member of that same “professional” media. After all, who has a mic flag that is not serious about what they are doing? If you do in-studio interviews, mic flags offer that extra touch that sends the message: this is serious. At GrapeRadio.com we have outfitted all four shock mounts for our RE-20 mics with mic flags similar to the style I have in the picture above. We have successfully placed our MD-46’s with mic flags on the dais at a number of large wine events. They look great in the press coverage of these events.

X Factor: I’m not quite sure how to explain this, but mic flags seem to hypnotize people. It is as if folks assume you need a license to get one. I can’t tell you how many times I have talked my way into interviewing someone based in large part on the fact that I have that big plastic cube on my mic. You can see them looking down at the flag and asking, “you’re with the media?” Of course…

I always recommend Impact PBS for mic flags. They have no minimum order size or set up fees. In fact, you can order flags one at a time if need be. They have a wide assortment of styles to choose from and will certainly have one that fits your needs. The graphics are sharp and clearly visible. All sides of the flags are finished and use a nice foam center to accommodate most any microphone. (I have no affiliation with Impact PBS other than I like and use their products.) Last year I asked Glenn Love, who runs Impact PBS, to be on Behind The Mic. You can listen to the interview here.

Podcast Consultant “Trick of the Trade”: Impress you next client by having custom mic flags made. Don’t tell them ahead of time or include it as a line item in your bid, just do it. It costs next to nothing and they’ll be impressed and appreciative. Sometimes it is the little things.

Bottom line, a professional mic flag will set you back about $60 – that is nothing. Brand yourself appropriately. This is an action step for today. Order one now!

Additional resources: Podcast Solutions and Podcast Academy: The Business Podcasting Book