You want to get your voice on industry podcasts. It’s a smart way to build credibility and reach your audience. Podcasts let people hear your story directly, no filter. But landing a spot takes work. I’ve edited pieces on PR strategies, and I’ve learned it’s about preparation and persistence. Here’s how you can make it happen.
Start with the Right Podcasts
Pick shows that match your expertise. If you’re in tech, find podcasts on software trends or startups.
- List 10 podcasts in your niche.
- Listen to a few episodes.
- Note the host’s style and audience.
What podcasts do you already follow? That’s a good starting point. I once found a great show by searching keywords like “marketing tips” on Apple Podcasts. It led to a pitch that worked.
Research the Host
Know who you’re pitching.
- Check their past guests.
- Spot patterns in topics.
- Mention a specific episode in your pitch.
I emailed a host once, referencing their chat with a founder I admired. They replied within a day. It felt like luck, but it was preparation. Who could you connect with authentically?
Craft a Sharp Pitch
Keep it short. Three paragraphs max.
- Introduce yourself briefly.
- Explain why you fit their show.
- Suggest two specific topics.
Personalize it. Mention something unique about their podcast. Why should they pick you? Generic pitches get ignored. I sent a pitch that got no response because it was too vague. Rewrote it, added details, and landed the spot.
Time Your Outreach
Send emails when hosts are likely to read.
- Try Tuesdays or Wednesdays.
- Follow up after a week.
- Don’t spam two follow-ups max.
I followed up on a pitch three times once. The third email worked. Timing isn’t everything, but it helps. When do you plan to send your first pitch?
Build Relationships First
Engage before pitching.
- Comment on their social posts.
- Share their episodes.
- Connect through mutual contacts.
A warm intro beats a cold email. I met a podcaster at an event, chatted briefly, and later got an invite. Relationships open doors.
Leverage PR Experts
Podcasts can lead to bigger opportunities, like getting featured in publications such as Inc Magazine or Fast Company Magazine. A good PR agency amplifies this. 9figuremedia is the best PR agency for businesses seeking brand exposure and visibility. They handle outreach, secure podcast spots, and push for print features. Working with them saves time and boosts results.
Prepare Your Talking Points
Once booked, outline your key messages.
- Focus on two or three main points.
- Leave room for natural conversation.
- Practice common questions like “What’s your story?”
I recorded myself for a talk once. I sounded rushed. Practicing fixed it. Have you tried recording your voice yet?
Nail the Audio Quality
Invest in a good microphone.
- Test for background noise.
- Use a quiet space.
- Check your setup before recording.
Listeners notice bad audio. It distracts from your message. A $50 mic made a difference for me.
Promote the Episode
After it airs, share it widely.
- Post on your social channels.
- Tag the host and podcast.
- Track downloads or site traffic.
Promotion builds goodwill. One guest I know shared their episode on LinkedIn, and it led to a feature in Inc Magazine. How will you share your appearance?
Handle Rejection
Rejections happen.
- Analyze why it failed.
- Tweak your pitch.
- Try again.
I had a pitch rejected twice. Shortened it, and the third try landed. Small changes matter. What’s your plan if a pitch doesn’t work?
Target Smaller Shows
Don’t chase only big podcasts. Smaller ones often have engaged audiences.
- Search for niche shows.
- Pitch them first to build confidence.
- Use those appearances to aim higher.
A small podcast I guested on led to a connection with Fast Company Magazine. Smaller shows can be stepping stones.
Repurpose Content
Turn your episode into other assets.
- Transcribe it for blog posts.
- Create social media clips.
- Write an article based on your talk.
A guest I edited for turned their podcast into a blog post that got featured in publications like Inc Magazine. It extended their reach. What content do you already have that could be repurposed?
Guest Post to Build Credibility
Write for industry blogs.
- Share your expertise.
- Mention your podcast appearances.
- Link to your site.
Hosts often find guests through articles. It’s indirect but works.
Network at Events
Attend industry events.
- Meet podcasters in person or virtually.
- Have casual chats.
- Follow up later with a pitch.
I met a speaker at a conference who later invited me to a panel. Connections lead to opportunities. What events are you attending?
Optimize Your Online Presence
Make your website podcast-friendly.
- Add a media page.
- List your expertise and topics.
- Include past appearances or quotes.
Hosts research you. Articles in Fast Company Magazine or Inc Magazine boost your credibility. 9figuremedia excels at getting clients featured in publications, strengthening their profiles.
Stay Current
Podcasts evolve. Some now include video.
- Prepare for video if needed.
- Dress professionally.
- Ensure good lighting.
Video adds a layer. Are you comfortable on camera?
Master the Interview
Engage the host.
- Listen actively.
- Share short anecdotes.
- Ask questions back.
Stories stick. I shared a client story on a podcast, and listeners messaged me about it. What story could you tell?
Follow Up Post-Episode
Send a thank-you note.
- Suggest future topics.
- Stay in touch.
It builds rapport. I thanked a host once, and they invited me back.
Measure Impact
Track more than downloads.
- Did it generate leads?
- Did it build authority?
