How To Maximize Your Next Podcast Interviews – A Comprehensive Guide
Updated: Aug 10, 2024
Written by GiGi Diaz, Executive Contributor
GiGi Diaz is a Certified Mindset & Business Coach, media personality, host of the Chats with GiGi podcast, and entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience. She’s also the founder and CEO of Seizing Happy®; a coaching organization dedicated to helping women entrepreneurs achieve their business goals without burnout.
Being featured on podcasts can significantly boost your visibility and credibility in your field. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, an author, or a thought leader, getting your voice heard by a wider audience can lead to new opportunities, clients and connections. But after being in media for over 20 years I can tell you the actual interview is only part of the equation for success. Here’s how you can maximize each interview opportunity, before, during, and after.
Before the interview
Research potential podcasts and interviews
The first step in maximizing your podcast and interview features is to identify the right platforms. Not all podcasts and interviews will be a good fit for your message or target audience. Start by researching podcasts that align with your industry, expertise, and brand values.
Look for podcasts that cater to your niche. Use podcast directories, social media, and industry forums to find popular shows in your field. You might even check out where your favorite leaders in your industry have been featured and pitch yourself to those shows as well.
Consider the podcast’s audience. Are they likely to be interested in what you have to say? Does the podcast’s tone and style match your brand? “All publicity is good publicity” isn’t quite the vibe when you’re trying to build a solid brand and attract more clients.
Pitching yourself effectively
Once you’ve identified potential podcasts, the next step is to pitch yourself as a guest.
During my time with iHeartRadio and Radio Disney, I received over a dozen pitches, each day, to bring experts onto my shows. Here’s how you can you make your pitch stand out from the rest.
Your pitch should highlight why you’re a great fit for the podcast. Include your background, expertise, and what unique insights you can offer to the audience. Producers have limited time so you wanna be brief and powerful. I dive deep into how to effectively pitch yourself in my Media Marketing Mastery course.
One of the main tips to remember is to personalize your approach by tailoring each pitch to the specific podcast. Mention past episodes you enjoyed and explain how your appearance can add value.
Have an entry point ready
Depending on your business structure, there is either one main entry point to your business, for example, your signature offer, or there are multiple entry points. You might have a freebie that leads to a nurture sequence, a low-ticket offer and a midway offer. Whichever your structure, be sure you’re ready to promote this entryway and your systems are set up adequately to monetize. More on this later!
During the interview
It should go without saying that being camera-ready, on time, with good lighting and a proper microphone are key to a quality interview. But just in case, there it is!
Soundbite a short extract from a recorded interview, chosen for its potency or appropriateness.
Think in soundbites
Share personal stories and experiences that illustrate your points. This makes your message more relatable and memorable.
While stories are powerful tools for engaging listeners, the skill to master is having short and powerful statements that can be extracted after the interview to be promoted in other formats such as social media reels, for example, to attract more listeners to the interview.
Clear communication & product integration
Use simple language that your audience can easily understand and make sure you avoid using industry jargon that might confuse listeners. The only exception to this is if the listeners are industry leaders also. For example, if a podcast is about attorneys for attorneys then go crazy. But if you’re an attorney being interviewed and the audience is potential clients, speak in simple terms.
If there’s a way you can casually incorporate your service or product into the interview, do so. I see it happen all the time. Interviews go deep into your why, your story, your hobbies, your routines and time’s up before you can position your services. Be creative in tying in your services to your answers and storytelling. Think of adding something like “this is why I love (what you do) because it helps (your client) achieve/conquer/acquire (whatever they were asking you about). It’s all about sharing how your brand’s mission aligns with the topics discussed.
After the interview
Following up with the host
A thoughtful follow-up can leave a lasting impression. Send a thank-you email to the host expressing your appreciation for the opportunity.
If you’re on a true quest to improve your interviewing skills, ask for feedback on your performance. This can help you improve for future interviews.
Promoting the interview
Maximize the exposure of your interview by promoting it.
While you’re at the interview, be sure to record behind the scenes, snap some clips, and take photos. Use these to tease the upcoming interview. If you can get the release date that’s even better. Use more of these clips to promote the interview once it airs. Share the interview link on your social media channels. Tag the host and the podcast to increase visibility.
This is where you also want to leverage your network asking them to share the interview to help you reach a wider audience. Having a powerful network that believes in and supports you is an amazing feeling. If you’re lacking this, I invite you to mine in the Seizing Happy® Hybrid Community. See here.
Maximizing your podcast and interview features requires preparation, engagement, and follow-up. By researching potential podcasts, pitching yourself effectively, and preparing thoroughly, you can make a strong impression during the interview. Following up with the host and promoting the interview can help you reach a wider audience and build long-term relationships. With these strategies, you can leverage podcast and interview opportunities to boost your visibility and credibility.
FAQs
What if I get nervous during the interview?
Take deep breaths and stay calm. Focus on the conversation and remember that you’re the expert on your topic.
How can I find the right podcasts to pitch to?
Research podcast directories, use social media, and ask for recommendations from your network.
How often should I try to be featured on podcasts?
Aim for consistency. Try to be featured on at least one podcast per month to maintain visibility.
Read more from GiGi Diaz
GiGi Diaz, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
GiGi Diaz is a Certified Mindset & Business Coach, media personality, host of the Chats with GiGi podcast, and entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience. She’s also the founder and CEO of Seizing Happy®; a coaching organization dedicated to helping women entrepreneurs achieve their business goals without burnout. GiGi earned both, her Bachelor’s in Sociology and Anthropology and her Master’s Degree in Global Strategic Communications at Florida International University.
