Listen to “16. The Benefits of Interviewing Guests For Your Podcast” on Spreaker.
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Podcasting is a powerful medium for sharing knowledge, storytelling, and building a community. One of the most engaging formats for podcasts is the interview style, where hosts bring on guests to share their insights, experiences, and expertise. But if you’re wondering how to find podcast guests who are a perfect fit for your show, this guide will walk you through the process step by step.
1. Define Your Ideal Guest Profile
Before reaching out to potential guests, it’s crucial to determine what kind of guest will add value to your podcast. Ask yourself:
- Who is my target audience?
- What topics are they most interested in?
- What type of guests would my listeners find credible and engaging?
Consider industry experts, influencers, authors, entrepreneurs, or even everyday people with extraordinary stories. By defining the characteristics of an ideal guest, you can be more strategic in your outreach.
2. Research and Identify Potential Guests
Once you have a clear guest profile, the next step is learning how to find podcast guests. Here are some effective ways to discover them:
a) Leverage Your Network
Start by looking within your own network. Think about:
- Colleagues, mentors, or business connections.
- Past collaborators or clients.
- Friends who are experts in relevant fields.
b) Browse Social Media Platforms
Platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram are goldmines for finding thought leaders and experts. Search for hashtags relevant to your niche and engage with people who are actively sharing valuable content.
c) Use Online Podcast Directories and Communities
Several online platforms help podcasters connect with guests, including:
- Podchaser – A comprehensive directory where you can find and connect with guests who have appeared on other podcasts.
- MatchMaker.fm – A service designed to match podcasters with potential guests.
- Podcast Guests – A website that connects podcasters with subject matter experts.
d) Explore Blogs and Publications
Look for industry blogs, magazines, and books in your niche. Authors and bloggers are often looking for exposure and may be open to podcast interviews.
e) Attend Networking Events and Conferences
Industry conferences, webinars, and networking events are excellent places to meet potential guests. Many speakers at these events are knowledgeable and looking for more ways to share their expertise.
3. Develop a Strong Outreach Strategy
Finding potential guests is just the beginning. You need to reach out to them in a way that grabs their attention and encourages them to say yes.
a) Craft a Personalized Pitch
When reaching out, avoid generic messages. Instead, personalize your invitation:
- Mention why you believe they are a great fit for your podcast.
- Highlight how the interview will benefit them (exposure, promotion, etc.).
- Include a brief description of your audience and previous guests.
Example:
Subject: Invitation to Be a Guest on [Your Podcast Name]
Hi [Guest’s Name],
I hope you’re doing well! I’m [Your Name], host of [Podcast Name], where we talk about [brief description of your podcast topic]. I’ve been following your work on [mention specific work or content], and I think our audience would love to hear your insights on [specific topic].
I’d love to invite you to be a guest on my show. The interview would be about [duration], and we can schedule at a time that works best for you. Let me know if you’re interested, and I’d be happy to share more details!
Looking forward to hearing from you.
Best, [Your Name]
b) Make It Easy for Guests to Say Yes
Reduce friction in the booking process by:
- Providing a simple way to schedule the interview (using tools like Calendly or Acuity Scheduling).
- Explaining the format and structure of the interview in advance.
- Reassuring them that it will be a relaxed and enjoyable conversation.
4. Utilize Guest Outreach Calls
If you’re looking to scale your guest booking process, consider posting a guest call on platforms where potential guests are active:
- LinkedIn posts
- Facebook groups for podcasters
- Your podcast’s website or newsletter
However, be prepared to filter through numerous requests and establish a vetting system.
5. Build Long-Term Relationships with Guests
Once you’ve booked a guest, maintain a strong relationship by:
- Sending a thank-you note after the interview.
- Promoting their work when you publish the episode.
- Keeping in touch for future collaborations.
Many podcasters develop a network of past guests who continue to refer others or return for follow-up interviews.
Conclusion
Knowing how to find podcast guests takes effort, but with a strategic approach, you can consistently book high-quality interviews that captivate your audience. Define your ideal guest, research effectively, craft compelling outreach messages, and build lasting relationships. Over time, this process will become second nature, helping your podcast grow and thrive.
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