Maximise your reach: 7 ways to secure podcast guest appearances

Jan 1

According to research recently from Edison Research, more UK adults than ever are actually listening to podcasts, and audiences are getting younger, and way more diverse. So there's an opportunity. Plus, according to RAJAH's Midas survey, 21%, of the UK population tune into podcasts in an average week and listen to around seven hours of podcasts each week.

Podcasting is a great way to position yourself as a thought leader, spread the word by boosting your visibility and also by being a guest on other people's shows, you can really, really tap into their audiences.

I always advise people to start off as a podcast guest before considering hosting their own show.

Why is podcast guesting important?

Good way to gain confidence in podcasting, gives you visibility to someone else’s audience, it’s less work than hosting and producing your own show.

What can you do to make a difference?

Start listening and connecting with podcast hosts that you’re interested in guesting on.

Tips for securing more podcast guest appearances

Research podcasts in your sector:
Get an understanding of the medium, the popular shows in your sector, and also understand what makes a good guest. Make a wish list of podcasts you would love to appear on. Look at your competitors, what shows have they been on and add those to your wish list too.
Listen to episodes and go deep listen, listen, listen:
What this guest bringing to that show? What are they selling? What is the host doing? Are there regular segments in each episode?
Write a compelling bio and have a pro image:
You need to sell yourself so that the host sees the value you’ll bring to their audience.
Craft a compelling pitch
What would you bring to the show? How would you benefit that audience? Remember, it's about them and not you. How can you help that host look good? Don’t forget to include some topical ideas.
Get your equipment in order:
Make sure you have a mic, headphones and a camera so that you’re delivering high quality outputs.
Prep for your appearance:
Ask for a brief, ideally including questions, so you can draft some outline bullet points before the interview to gather your thoughts.
Promote the episode once live:
It takes a long time to put together a podcast, so the least you can do is promote the episode. Use all of the marketing channels you can have to raise its visibility.