How to be a Rockstar Podcast Guest

Podcasts are popping into existence faster than you can blink, and with each new show comes a new opportunity to showcase your subject matter expertise and bring awareness to your brand.

Brands would be remiss if they failed to capitalize on the podcast boom. According to PodcastHosting.org, there are over 1.75 million podcasts and over 43 million episodes in existence today—and those numbers are always growing. 37% of the U.S. population listens to podcasts at least once a month and 24% listen weekly. Since podcasts typically focus on a specific topic, it makes it easy to identify which podcasts interest prospective clients, and by leveraging this information, you can reach them through their chosen avenue of content consumption.

Being invited for a podcast interview is a great opportunity for any brand. In order to make the most of it, you need to be prepared to be a rockstar podcast guest. You don’t just want to give the audience your message—you want that message to make such an outstanding impression that it stays with your listeners long after the episode has ended.

So, how do you become a rockstar guest? Here’s a few tips to get you started:

• Keep it conversational. Podcasts tend to be more relaxed and less formal. Think of it like you’re catching up with an old friend—keep your tone light and conversational. Remain professional, but don’t be afraid to relax a little. Feel free to use anecdotes and tell stories to get your point across.
• Get the right tech. You want to sound professional and polished, and that means having the right recording equipment. Consider investing in a high-quality external microphone rather than using the built-in microphone on your computer. Stick with a laptop or desktop computer—you should avoid recording on a phone at all costs. Use headphones to reduce audio feedback.
• Choose your location carefully. Your surroundings are crucial to a successful recording session. Find somewhere quiet where you’re unlikely to be interrupted. Turn your phone off, or at least put it on silent—even vibrate mode can be disruptive during a recording. Consider choosing a room with carpeting and soft surfaces—hard surfaces can amplify sound and feedback.
• Know the podcast. Listen to two or three episodes of the podcast before you record. That way, you’ll understand the typical structure, tone and duration of the interview.
• Be a person. When it comes to podcast, you’re a person first, not a brand. Don’t focus on name-dropping your company—the host will put the company name and any relevant links in the show notes. You should always keep in mind that anything you say will reflect on your company, but don’t focus on repeating brand messaging—let your personality shine through and carry your message to your listeners.

Following these tips will make your interview stand out from the crowd and give listeners a reason to remember you and your organization. It will also earn you a good reputation among podcast hosts. The result? More podcast opportunities, more attention paid to your brand, and—hopefully!—more sales.

By Rona Vaselaar

Photo by Tommy Lopez from Pexels