6 Tips For Podcast Guesting Success

Podcast popularity is at an all-time high! Almost daily there's news about celebrities like Joe Rogan, or movies launching their own fancast as limited series to build excitement and nurture their fanbase.

So how can you leverage podcast if you're not a podcaster? The answer as you may have seen in the title is appearing on podcasts as a guest!  It's a great way to expand your audience and demonstrate your expertise. Guesting means you don’t need to start your own show. You just need a good topic that’s helpful to the audience you wish to serve, It’s a win-win situation.

The key to success is to understand what makes a great podcast guest.

Listen to the Show You're Pitching

When you find a podcast you think would be appropriate, start by listening to it. You’ll get to understand the flow of the show and the topics they cover. You’ll know the range of issues discussed, which will help you make a better pitch for your own ideas.

If you happen to use a podcast booking service make sure that if they are pitching you for a show that you communicate with the booker that you will need time to listen to the show so they schedule enough time for you to get in at least three episodes. Podcasters would rather interview a long-time listener as it shows them you've invested time and actually value the show for its content and not just for publicity. 

Master Your Message

What will you teach or share in your interview? What is the main point you want to convey to the show’s audience? Have you prepared any solid learning objectives for the listener to take with them?

Take some time to prepare and research your topic. making have a solid idea of what you’re going to cover so that your interview is focused and insightful to the listener. Plan to over-deliver! If this is your first time being a podcast guest, rehearse before the appearance and prepare notes you can refer to during the interview.

Be Natural and Be Yourself

Save the sales talk or as the TikTok generation says, don't be suspicious, don't be suspicious. Listeners expect their podcasters to be natural and real. It’s like having a conversation with a friend. During the course of your interview, you will of course naturally mention your blog or social media presence, or a new product you’re promoting, but keep the promotions to a minimum. Focus on using your natural strengths to help the listener as much as you can in the time you have.

Focus on the Listener

When giving an interview, keep your focus on the listener. You are here to offer your knowledge and expertise to help them solve the issues they’re facing. Share the information they’d like to know and help them achieve their goals. If you stay focused on them, you can provide true value, which will make listeners want to check you out elsewhere. Remember, if you speak to serve and your intent is to improve their lives, your interview will have an impact.

Be Clear and Easy to Understand

It’s important to speak clearly and naturally. It's expected to be a little nervous which can make you talk faster than normal. We recommend practicing by recording yourself talking and listening back. You're going to hate it at first but if you want to master being an effective guest, practice is a must.

You’ll notice habits in your speech that need improvement. Your voice should be loud, but not yelling, clear but not robotic. Do your best to note your audio  distractions and bridge sounds, such as saying “um” or “like.” Here's a pro tip, go pause before saying "um" it will break you of the habit and make your speaking sound more authoritative. Also be aware of sniffles and mouth noises, those are picked up on the mic and can distract the podcaster and the listener. 

Relax and Enjoy the Experience

One of the main reasons people love podcasts is that they’re fun. They’re both informational and entertaining. A big part of being a great podcast guest is to get into a relaxed state of mind. Imagine your interview as having coffee with a colleague or if the tone of the show is very relaxed, then imagine you're meeting up with a good friend. If you’re having a good time, this will come across to the listener.

Getting Started as A Podcast Guest

A great way to start is to check out some podcasts in your area of expertise. This will give you an idea of what they’re all about. Picture yourself on the show. What would you discuss? How would you help the listener with your expertise? Can you offer a different viewpoint or a fresh perspective? 

To learn more about how podcast appearances can help you reach your marketing goals, grow your leads, or establish you as the go-to person in your industry our new course is opening soon for Early-Bird Registration but wait!! If you've already subscribed and received the Podcast Guest Blueprint no need to click this link!

Complete the Early-Bird Registration to get all the details first! By the time you finish the training, you’ll be making your first pitch!