Being a guest on podcasts is a great way to share your message, yet it’s not something I see a lot of ministry leaders doing. Here’s your guide to being a great podcast guest.
There are over 2 million podcasts, and over 60% of all US consumers listen to podcasts. People listen in their homes, in the car, while they’re out taking a walk or exercising, and at work. Podcasts are everywhere. In the previous episode, I interviewed Eric Nevins, founder of the Christian Podcasters Association. Eric shared how podcasts are an effective way to get your message out to more people.
Look at the advantages podcasts have:
- Podcasts tend to have a loyal following
- As a guest, you “borrow” the host’s credibility with their audience
- Builds your reputation as an authority
- Exposes you to new audiences
- You can generally guest from anywhere in the world
- Shareable
- Podcasts are evergreen – that show stays out there. Someone may listen the day it comes out – others weeks, months, and even years later.
Here are my tips for being a great podcast guest.
I get emails all the time from agencies and individuals trying to guest on Life and Mission, but I’ve never accepted an unsolicited pitch. What? Because these people have obviously NOT listened to this podcast. I mean, when have you heard me talk about crypto? Please don’t be like that.
Most podcasts have a process, either through an application, or some other channel. Check the podcast website. If you reach out by email, do so only after listening to two or three episodes, and only after identifying how you can serve that audience. The point of this article isn’t to teach you how to pitch yourself–that’s a whole thing in itself! Let’s just say don’t be a jerk. Don’t make assumptions, and show up with a heart to serve (not sell).
Now, let’s get you ready to be a great guest:
- Follow the host’s process. Do what they ask you to do. Be ready to provide headshots, a short bio or introduction, and even a few suggested questions.
- Listen to at least two or three episodes. Get to know how the show goes, their style, and the types of questions they typically ask.
- Find out (listen & ask) if there are questions the host asks every guest so you can prepare your answer.
- Practice what you’ll talk about, and tell stories!! Practice telling your key stories (ones that will resonate with this audience) without taking rabbit trails or rambling.
- Get a microphone and learn how to use it. You can get a decent mic for about $100 (I use the ATR2100x) (affiliate link)
- Use earphones or earbuds to prevent echo on the recording.
- Don’t use a shared WiFi (coffee shop, etc.) if possible. Wired connections are more reliable than Wifi. Plan ahead.
- Dress professionally. Be prepared to be on video.
- Make sure your background isn’t distracting (visually, and audibly)
- Watch your lighting (don’t sit with a window in the background, etc.)
- Turn off your phone, or silence it and turn off notifications.
- Be on time, ready, with your tech tested – EVERY TIME
- Pay attention to cues from the host
- Speak with confidence.
- Match the tone of the show (another reason to listen).
- Stay engaged with the conversation.
- Show up to serve the audience and the host.
- If you have a CTA or a gift/offer, ask before recording if you can share it (usually at the end). It’s really nice to offer something specifically for that audience.
- Don’t continually refer to your offer or hint at giving/support for your cause.
- Thank the host. You may send a card or even a small gift of appreciation afterwards.
- Promote the podcast in your channels (social media, email, etc.).
If you do these things, you’ll be well on your way as a podcast guest. As you become known as someone who is easy to work with and who serves the audience, chances are podcast hosts will be willing to refer you to others.
Give it a try, and let me know how it goes!