This week is Thanksgiving, and you may be wondering what this delicious holiday has to do with podcasting. Well, just as a good podcast combines different ingredients to create a compelling listening experience, a Thanksgiving meal brings together various elements to form an extremely satisfying feast.
Think of it like this, your podcast is a turkey dinner. (No, not a turkey!) The host is the main course, providing the central theme and narrative. (The Turkey) The guests are the side dishes, offering unique perspectives and flavors. (Mashed potatoes, stuffing, green bean casserole, cranberry sauce) The audio production is the seasoning, enhancing the overall taste. (Salt & pepper, the sage in the dressing, pumpkin pie spice in the pumpkin pie) And the listeners are the hungry diners, eager to consume the content.
By choosing and prepping each ingredient, you can create a podcast that is not only informative and engaging but also as comforting and satisfying as a classic Thanksgiving meal. So, in line with the above analogy, here is the recipe for one of the side dishes: Strategies for Guest Outreach and Booking.
One of the biggest challenges for independent podcasters is booking compelling and engaging guests. This is where effective guest outreach and booking strategies come into play.
Identifying Potential Guests
The first step in successful guest outreach is identifying potential guests who align with your podcast's theme and target audience. Consider experts, thought leaders, and influencers in your field, as well as individuals with unique stories or perspectives to share. Keep an open mind while considering this. There may be a wider range of guests than you might first consider.
Researching Potential Guests
Once you've identified a list of potential guests, thoroughly research each person's background, expertise, and online presence. This will help you determine if they're a good fit for your podcast, and it will also provide you with talking points for your outreach message. It’s a bit like that Saturday morning PSA…the more you know! Truly, the more you know about your guests, the easier it will be to communicate with them and discuss coming on your podcast.
Crafting a Compelling Guest Pitch
When reaching out to potential guests, it's crucial to craft a compelling pitch that highlights the value your podcast can bring to them. Explain your podcast's format, audience demographics, and past episodes to give them a sense of your show. It is important to be honest with them. If you do not have a big reach, don’t try to fudge the numbers. Be upfront with your needs as well, but don’t blow smoke up their… Clearly articulate why you believe they would be a great guest and how their presence would benefit your listeners.
Personalizing Your Outreach
Avoid generic mass emails. Take the time to personalize your outreach messages to each potential guest. Address them by name, mention their specific work or achievements, and show that you've done your research and understand their expertise. There is nothing worse than getting junk email. Don’t be a junk email spreader. Personalize your communication and your end results will be amazing.
Following Up Effectively
It's common for potential guests to be busy and may not respond immediately. Don't be discouraged. Follow up politely after a reasonable amount of time, reiterating your interest in having them on your podcast. Here again, don’t be a junk email spreader, but you know the saying, ‘The Sqeaky Wheel Gets the Grease.’ There is a fine line between a squeaky wheel and one that is just replaced–so be persistent, but use good judgment. It is at this point that many people give up. Getting over your fear of actually contacting people is one hurdle, follow-up–well, that can be downright overwhelming. This step, however, is crucial. Keep it up!
Making the Booking Process Smooth
Once you've secured a guest, make the booking process as smooth and efficient as possible. Provide them with a clear calendar to schedule the interview, send them relevant talking points, and ensure they have a comfortable recording environment.
Lastly–always, always reconfirm their appointment! (I might do a whole blog on this topic)
MW Studio Services Can Help
MW Studio Services can assist independent podcasters in guest outreach and booking. We can help you identify and research potential guests, craft compelling pitches, handle personalized outreach, follow up effectively, and manage the booking process smoothly.
Contact us today to learn more about how MW Studio Services can help you book amazing guests for your podcast and take your show to the next level.
Additional Tips for Independent Podcasters:
Network with other podcasters and potential guests. Attend podcasting events, conferences, and online communities to connect with people in your industry.
Leverage social media platforms. Use social media to connect with potential guests, engage with their content, and subtly express your interest in having them on your show.
Offer perks and incentives. Consider offering perks or incentives to potential guests, such as sharing their work with your audience or providing them with a recording of the interview. What about a coupon code for some of their merch?
Be patient and persistent. The guest booking process takes time and effort. Don't get discouraged if you don't get immediate results. Keep refining your outreach strategies and staying persistent.
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