Podcasting has emerged as a powerful medium for businesses looking to expand their reach, position themselves as an authority figure in their niche and form a trusting relationship with their audience. Finding podcast guests can benefit you in so many ways. Podcast guests add diversity and fresh perspectives to your content as well as allowing you to tap into the knowledge and experiences of industry leaders, influencers, and fellow professionals. Hosting podcast guests also enables you to grow your audience if your guest shares the podcast to their own platforms.
However, finding exceptional guests may be a daunting task, especially if you don’t know where to start. In my days working in radio I learned to be very creative with finding guests. In this blog post I will discuss some of the strategies and techniques I used then as well as some newer strategies I have figured out since. Let’s connect you with guests who can elevate your podcast and captivate your audience.
Why you should have guests on your podcast
Incorporating guests into your podcast brings several benefits. Guests provide diverse perspectives and fresh insights, lending credibility to your show and expanding your audience through cross-promotion.
Engaging with guests opens networking opportunities within your industry, while their expertise adds content variety and freshness to your episodes. Guest interviews generate higher levels of audience engagement and interaction, fostering a sense of community.
Additionally, hosting guests allows for learning and growth, both for you as a host and for your listeners. Embracing guests on your podcast amplifies its impact and enhances the overall podcasting experience.
Starting a podcast? Find our guide here.
Define your ideal guest profile
Before trying to find podcast guests, you need to define your ideal guest profile. Consider the expertise, experience, and industry relevance that aligns with your niche and your target audience. Identifying the traits and qualities you desire in a guest will streamline your search process and increase the likelihood of finding guests who resonate with your audience.
How to find podcast guests
There are many different ways of finding podcast guests and thanks to the internet a lot of them are not too time consuming.
Leverage your existing network to find podcast guests
Start your guest search by tapping into your existing network. Reach out to colleagues, industry peers, and past guests to inquire if they can recommend anyone who would be a great fit for your podcast. Leaning on your network not only saves time but also ensures a level of trust and familiarity with your potential guests. They are more likely to respond positively to your invitation and contribute meaningfully to your podcast.
Finding podcast guests on Google
Perform Google searches on topics related to your podcast and explore articles, papers, and podcasts within your niche. Look for authors, experts, or individuals who have been guests on other podcasts discussing the subject matter you’re interested in. Reach out to them with personalised messages explaining why you find their insights valuable and inviting them to be a guest on your show.
Using social media to find guests
Social media platforms are a treasure trove of potential podcast guests. Use socials to identify influential voices and thought leaders in your niche. Follow industry-specific hashtags, join relevant groups and communities and engage in conversations to build connections with potential guests.
In Facebook and LinkedIn groups engage in conversations, contribute valuable insights, and let the group members know that you’re looking for guests. Many individuals spend hours searching and pitching podcasts, so they will appreciate the opportunity to apply as a guest on your show.
Be proactive in reaching out. Share your podcast’s guest pitch and express your interest in featuring them as a guest. Make sure to personalise your outreach to demonstrate genuine interest in their work and expertise.
Not sure what you should be posting on your podcast social media? Take a look at our ideas for engaging podcast social media content.
Find podcast guests at industry events and conferences (online or in person)
Industry events and conferences offer valuable opportunities to connect with like-minded professionals and potential podcast guests. Consider attending relevant conferences, workshops, and seminars within your niche. Take advantage of networking sessions and engage in meaningful conversations with speakers, panellists and attendees. These interactions can open doors to potential guests who are actively seeking platforms to share their insights and experiences.
Use a guest booking platforms
To expand your search beyond your immediate network, consider trying a guest booking platform. These platforms connect podcast hosts with potential guests, making the guest acquisition process more efficient and targeted. Services like Matchmaker.fm and PodcastGuests.com provide directories of experts, thought leaders, and industry professionals actively seeking podcast appearances. Qwoted is a site for finding sources for articles and features as well as interview guests.
These platforms allow you to search based on specific criteria, ensuring you find guests who align with your business and resonate with your target audience.
You can also claim your podcast on Listen Notes and add a classified request for guests to attract relevant professionals.
Create an “apply to be a guest” form
Make it easy for potential guests to find you by adding an “Apply to be a guest” form to your website and link in bio. This form allows interested individuals to express their interest in being a guest on your podcast.
Nurture relationships with previous guests
Building strong relationships with your previous guests can be incredibly valuable. Maintain ongoing communication, express gratitude for their contribution, and promote their work across your podcast’s social media channels. By nurturing these relationships, you create a network of advocates who may recommend future guests or even return as guests themselves.
Contacting guests
When contacting potential guests, try various methods to increase your chances of reaching them:
- Search them on Google to find their contact details
- Message them on social media
- Use professional email finding tools like RocketReach to discover people’s email addresses
- Reach out to the organisation they work for and inquire about the best contact method (only if the interview is related to their job)
I recommend having a podcast pitch document you send out with all the information about the podcast and about what is required of guests (i.e. stable internet connection). You can attach this to a personalised email mentioning why you think they would be a good fit for your podcast.
Clearly articulate the benefits of being a guest on your podcast, such as exposure to a niche audience, networking opportunities, and the chance to share their knowledge with a broader community. Demonstrate your podcast’s professionalism and provide examples of past episodes to showcase your content quality and reach.
Finding and engaging exceptional guests for your podcast is an ongoing process that requires strategic planning and consistent effort. The key to a successful podcast lies in showcasing diverse perspectives, capturing engaging conversations, and providing valuable insights to your audience.
And remember, your guests are doing you a favour by giving you their time and wisdom. Treat them with the utmost respect and gratitude.
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