Becoming a Standout Podcast Guest: Tips for Maximizing Your Impact
If you’re on the fence about tapping into podcasts or already have some great guest episodes under your belt, the good news is this: podcasts are here to stay. Being a podcast guest not only allows you to expand your reach and put yourself in front of potential clients, but it really gives you a unique opportunity to showcase your personality and expertise in ways that a quick scroll on your website can’t.
So, if you’re in the market to start (or continue) pitching yourself to be a guest to some industry podcasts, here are a few things to keep in mind about maximizing your experience.
Tune in before you speak out
You’ve been given the green light to be a podcast guest — congrats! Beyond scheduling a date for your interview, the first thing you’ll want to do is research. For example, is the podcast B2B with other industry pros listening in, or is it more B2C where you’ll be appealing to engaged couples?
You’ll be able to get a pretty great lay of the land by listening to recent episodes. Reach out to the podcast host about their favorite episode(s) so they can share what they feel was especially successful. Get a feel for what the host’s interview style is like and whether it leans conversational or if it’s a bit more buttoned-up. Industry podcasts run the gamut from fairly structured and professional to shows that don’t care if you throw curse words around. That said, it’s incredibly important that you know exactly what the vibe is before you get in the hot seat.
What are the expectations?
As you’re firming up a topic with the host, it’s a good idea to have an open conversation about potential talking points and messaging. Some hosts may prefer a straightforward Q&A-style talk, while others may be a bit laid-back but prefer to have a general direction of the discussion in mind.
If the podcast host gives you the opportunity to share some suggested interview questions, take time to carefully craft ones that you feel comfortable and confident answering.
If the podcast host sends you questions, review them thoroughly, and don't be afraid to ask for updates/changes if something needs it. Remember- you're the expert in your subject matter, and they'll appreciate that you've taken the time to ensure the questions lead to a thoughtful conversation that will be helpful to listeners.
Be mindful of also being too practiced (yes, that’s a thing!); it can come off as too robotic.
Get your tech in order
I can’t stress this enough: make sure all of your tech is fully prepared before the host hits record! The most common thing that guests run into issues with is their audio, so your recording space should be quiet and free of distractions. Headphones and standalone microphones can be found relatively inexpensive, and I promise it makes a world of difference.
Be camera-ready
Some podcasts even record video in addition to the audio (like Mind Your Wedding Business), so that’s something you’ll want to find out before your interview date. Test your camera, finesse your lighting, and make sure that you’re ready for your close-up. Don’t let the podcast interview be the first time that you’re testing a new lighting or video setup
It’s also crucial that you look appropriate for the recording. It’s not required to go full business casual, but lean on the side of caution and go a bit more polished. Tidy up anything that might pop up in your background as well.
What to do after you stop recording
When your interview is all said and done, it’s time to send the host a heartfelt thank you email. Thank them for their time and the opportunity to share your expertise; who knows, they might have you back on the show one day!
Once the episode goes live, take to social media and promote your episode. Be mindful of tagging the podcast and/or the host, and encourage people to give it a listen. Some hosts will provide graphics, but it’s encouraged that you check out their Instagram and see how they typically promote new episodes & guests. If they don’t provide any graphics, consider creating your own on Canva and have a checklist of where you plan to share the episode. Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify — not only will it mean a great deal to the interviewer, but it can help boost their show.
Your first podcast interview might be intimidating, but the more that you pursue, the more natural they’ll feel. Before you know it, you’ll be a well-known podcast guest in the industry, have a wealth of features in your portfolio, and the episodes will speak for themselves!
