Why You Should Invite Guests To Your Podcast Every Chance You Get
Many people fall in love with podcasts because they are drawn to the hosts and the interesting topics they tackle. And when hosts bring on guests, they add new layers to the show.
But all too often, podcasters are unsure about bringing guests onto their show. After all, it takes a lot of work (and nerve) to invite guests, and you face possible rejection with every invite you send out.
If you’re unsure about inviting a guest to your podcast, then this article is for you. Read on to learn more about inviting guests to your show.
What’s in it for you?
It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that podcast guests are a one-and-done situation in that any and all interactions stop after the interview. But the truth is, guests bring a lot of things to the table for you and your audience, such as:
A wider reach - A guest can bring their audience to your podcast, which, in turn, can double your listeners, reach, and more.
Exposure - Outlets and channels that follow your guest may pick up your content as a result of the interview.
Credibility - A guest adds their credibility to your own by association, which is great when you’re looking to build your show.
Knowledge - Guests can provide a high level of knowledge and a new perspective on topics your podcast covers.
With all of these benefits in mind, it’s time to tackle the big question:
How do you get guests?
The first thing you need to do if you want to get guests is to make content. Creating episodes regularly and building an audience shows prospective guests that you’re putting time and effort into building your show.
Next, look up your prospective guests and answer these questions:
Where does your content overlap? What topics do they cover that are of interest to your audience?
Where do they share their content? What online channels do they actively use?
How can you maximize the benefits of their presence on your podcast?
Where can they be best contacted?
Once you’ve determined that the candidate can be a guest in a future show, it’s time to reach out to them. Here are some things you want to keep in mind:
Tell them what guesting on your show can mean for them
Mention why you are interested in bringing them onto your podcast
Present links to your podcast channels, social media platforms, and website
Schedule the interview at a time that works for both parties
Remember to be brief and concise as well. Your prospective guest might only have enough time in their day to review messages, so you want your invite to stand out.
What happens next?
Once you’ve sent your invitation, the waiting game begins. Only one of three things can happen:
They accept the interview - If they accept your invitation, all that’s left for you to do is to finalize the details leading up to the day of the interview.
They pass on the invite - Thank them for their response and keep the communication open. You never know if you may want or need to reach out to them again in the future.
They don’t reply at all - Guests are not robots. So if they don’t answer for a while, it’s possible that they simply aren’t interested. You can always try following up. Just don’t overdo it.
What happens after the interview?
You want to make it as easy as possible for your guest to share the show with their audience. Let your guest know the release date a week before the episode airs.
You can also send them a beautiful graphic and a quote that makes them look awesome. The better they look in your show, the more likely they will share it and come on the podcast again!
Wrapping up
Inviting a guest to your podcast can take a lot of work, but it’s key to growing your show. If you need a hand, Awesome Pros is here to help. Reach out today with what you are looking for, and we will put together a complementary test package just for you!