A common misconception is that adults do things better than teens. Sometimes this is true, however in the age of technology teenagers seem to be in the lead. That is why I find it funny when publishing companies try to be 'hip and cool'--and have suits heading up teen based projects.
I like to stay on top of things in the literary world, so I usually find myself stalking publishing websites. One new trend that has been popping up across sites, actually it has been going on for some time now, is podcasting.
If you are going to do something for teens, make it something that they would be interested in. I'm all about marketing and learning your audience. Having a 'suit' run a teen podcast is just crazy. From what I have heard any literary podcast that is hosted by an adult is absolutely boring*.
Step back for a moment and think about it. Imagine a teenager doing a podcast about marketing, few business men would listen to it. Regardless how much information the teen provided in the podcast. This is because their is no connection.
You can't send a Burger King worker to do a surgeons job, just as you can't expect teens to listen to an adult talk in a monotone voice about books. It's absolutely annoying and boring.
You can read this post and think 'Yeah well Devyn, you are a young adult and can not enjoy an adult conversation, that is not our problem.' I do listen to podcasts that are created 100% by people older then me and I enjoy them.
However, honestly guys, your podcasts are horrible. I'm not trying to sound mean to the people who are doing the podcasts either, it is not your fault someone decided to slam you down in front of a mic and make you talk about books. I applaud you for even trying something new. But again, if you want to reach teens use teens.
And before you have time to come at me with two common misconceptions of teens I have two statements to add and then we can call this blog finished.
Misconception One: "Teens can't possibly put together a podcast that would SOUND GOOD, It's all about QUALITY Mr. Burton!"
Really now?
I would like to introduce you to Dave Moyer, he is a very talented teen who does a podcast called WordCast. Oh yes, a podcast that is fairly popular--ran 100% by a teen. I could find more, but after looking over Dave's website and podcast site if you need more--you have some issues.
Misconception Two: "No teen would want to do a podcast for us!"
Two words. FREE BOOKS.
Do one podcast a month, two hours of service from one teen at most will set you back around $25.00. Then let them in your stock room and grab a few books. You could do some mega marketing, run a contest for local teens for a chance to be part of a 'COOL NEW HIP PODCAST'.
This blog was written to help you the publisher--and if you have read it I ask you leave me a comment or shoot me an e-mail (devynwburtonATyahoo.com).
Until Next Time,
Devyn
* = I have only really tuned into three literary podcasts. I am also only talking about podcasts created by publishing companies for teens.
