One of the best ways an influencer can grow their brand is to participate in podcast interviews. You don’t have to run your own show, you have the opportunity to position yourself as an expert on other shows in your niche. But, not all interviews are equal. If you’re looking to become a rock star podcast interview there are a few things that you need to know.
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A Rock Star Podcast Interview
Is the gold standard of podcast shows. Once you’re established as an engaging, informative, and fun interviewee-other podcasters in your niche (and in related niches) will begin reaching out to you to share your stuff!
I run two shows and I’ve learned pretty fast that a cool subject becomes boring pretty quickly if the interview is flat.
You don’t want that.
Podcast interviews are great because they are the great equalizer. Unless the host interviews on video-no one sees your face! It doesn’t matter if you’re an introvert/ambivert/or extrovert a podcast can be a great way to share who you are, what you do and how you serve other people with your skills.
Currently, when I pitch to be interviewed on a show I am fully aware that it is for the purpose of:
- Serving the audience that I’m speaking to
- Growing my brand.
Many guests are confused by what is most important when going on shows. It’s always to serve the audience first.
One
Be clear about what you actually want to share with the audience that you’ll be speaking with. Currently, I am selling 3 products-two courses and a coaching program. For 2019 I decided that the best way to meet my professional and personal goals was to record as many podcast interviews as I possibly can.
Need a guest? I love talking about the following topics: personal finance, lifestyle design through digital entrepreneurship, brand building with ebooks, travel and self-care. Trust me-I will rock whichever topic you would like to discuss! Email me at: michelleismoneyhungry@gmail.com so that we can see if I would be a good fit for your audience.
When I pitch a potential show, I am very clear about what I can bring to their audience.
Two
Pitch the right shows! I love food, but it would be very strange for me to pitch a food show unless it’s very clear how it ties into my overall scope of focus. Don’t pitch a show where it’s a reach to you and the host why you’re looking to share your expertise on their show.
In order to pitch the right shows you need to know how your brand is perceived by people who are new to you and have brand clarity.
And, you also need to understand your business funnel. Many experts are looking to direct people to the top part of their business funnel. In my case, I’m looking to get people on my email list. I decided that it was more helpful to a show’s listeners to leave with a resource and it’s great for me because I am able to grow my email list.
Three
Do your research. I’ve spoken with several hosts who indicated that they were frustrated with guests who were clearly unprepared for the interview. Or, the guests were all over the place.
Don’t be that person. Listen to a couple of shows before agreeing to an interview. Know the following so that you aren’t caught off guard:
- Typical show duration
- The host’s interview style
- Inside jokes or typical questions that are asked during each show.
Last year I accidentally ended up on a show that was a little more politically leaning than I would like. Not because I feel uncomfortable sharing my views, it just wasn’t in alignment with my goals at the time.
And, the show was WAY. TOO. LONG.
I no longer go on shows that last more than an hour. And, I always make sure that they show’s topics and community match my community.
Taking these steps just makes life easier.
Four
Know how to rock an interview when your host is a dud. This happens a lot more often than you would expect. In fact, it has been surprising to me how flat some hosts can be (not talking about any hosts of any shows that I’ve been on).
Remember, you’re there to share wisdom. Give it like the rock star ninja that you are!
You could literally say “Do you mind if I take over right now? I’m so excited about this topic!” There are many ways that guests can take charge when the host is floundering. Being fun, excited, and genuine is always a great place to start.
Five
Share a resource every time you’re on a show. This is a win-win action. Provide something that will help listeners with a problem that they are dealing with. You could create a mini-course, checklist, or audio file to share with the show’s listeners.
It also grows your email list. Winning!
Before, I would share a product to sell during my show (not during interviews). But, I’ve decided that, that process doesn’t serve audiences in the best way possible. Instead, it’s better to nurture a long-term relationship and then share a product, affiliate, or service that could be purchased at a later time.
Six
Be clear about the host’s show expectations. Most hosts will provide information to their guests detailing how they expect the show to run. If this does not happen, send questions immediately.
Here are some of the typical questions that guests should ask and be clear about:
- How the show will be recorded? Will the show be recorded via Zoom/Skype/etc?
- Will the host record audio and video? Or, audio only? I was caught off-guard when a host started recording video and I was wearing a t-shirt because I had just returned from walking 15,000 steps around town.
- When will the show go “live?” Or, will the host send a link to let the guest know when the show is live?
Seven
Have the right equipment. My opinion on this topic may be a bit controversial in podcasting circles but I believe that podcasters are sometimes unreasonable about the type of equipment they expect their guests to have.
However…
If you’re in the process of growing a brand and participating in a large number of interviews is part of your plan-you need to invest in some good equipment.
Why?
Because you’re positioning yourself as a professional and an influencer. Show up as one.
What do I recommend? The ATR2100 it’s $80 and the sound is great. You can see the set up below. This microphone is super easy to set up. If you have a MACBook Air or Pro you may need a “dongle” in order to connect the speaker to your laptop. And, you will need to double-check the sound input and output before the show records. Typically, the host will let you know if there seems to be an issue with the show.
Looking to Grow Your Personal Brand and Make More Money?
Schedule a Business Networking Accelerator 30 minute strategy session with me today! Schedule a session if:
- If your network isn’t growing in the way that you would like it
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- Aren’t sure how to grow your brand in your community? Let’s talk!
Check out my free webinar “How to Make $500 in Passive Income with Ebooks.” Having a book published is a great way to establish your expertise in the space that you’re in!
Haven’t started your blog yet? Check out the following resource “The Secret Blueprint for Blogging Success” by Ruth Soukup of Elite Blog Academy.
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Solid tips right there. I love the new site layout!
Thanks Jason!
I love this post, because it reminds us that we need to bring the fun with us; and not depend on the host to keep it lively. I am taking notes now on how to up level my podcast guest game! 😀
Your podcast host might be terrible at interviewing! Be prepared and rock the interview despite that.