Today's topic is one that has been buzzing in our community lately: Podcast Pitching. Being featured on podcasts has become a key strategy for entrepreneurs looking to boost their visibility and credibility. And the way to be featured is to have great value that benefits the audience, which is initially shared with the host in a pitch. But with increased competition, standing out can be challenging. Is it overused? And more importantly, how can you stand out?
Today, I'll share some insights on what I would do to stand out amidst the noise, drawing from our experience in securing over 300 podcast interviews in the last year. This is in addition to the over 100+ interviews we do on our show, so there is A LOT of interviewing happening.
Crafting Your Pitch: Quality Over Quantity
Gone are the days of generic pitches sent in masses. This is not a numbers game. We want podcasts that are going to help support you and the host, it isn't just a get it done to cross it off a list game. Don't just send out generic pitches to every podcast under the sun. Take the time to listen to episodes, understand the host's style and audience, and tailor your pitch accordingly.
Personalization goes a long way in making you stand out from the crowd. To be seen in a crowded inbox, focus on quality over quantity. Tailor your pitch to each podcast, demonstrating your understanding of the host's style and audience.
Personalization is key to making a lasting impression and increasing your chances of securing an interview.
Action item: Make a list of podcasts that you enjoy and that you could provide value to. Put as many as you can on your list, you can eliminate them later if you find after further research it isn't a good fit or they aren't taking guests.
Beyond Formality: Building Relationships
While formal pitches have their place, building genuine relationships can be a game-changer in podcast pitching. Yes I receive and have sent formal pitches. An email, a connection piece, an ask (I teach this inside our Club and Anti-Social School). But it doesn't have to be formal. Another great approach that has worked REALLY well for us is to just start a relationship.
Example: I love watching this influencer on social because she travels EVERYWHERE with her family and teaches passive income. She has a podcast that I think I would make a great guest on. Instead of sending her a formal pitch, I just got to know her over social in the DMS. To be honest, I was a bit nervous to pitch her, so I just let the relationship play out a bit, exchanging our love for traveling in France, and then eventually I asked.
It was an easy ask. And an easy yet. Because we had a relationship.
Could I have sent a cold pitch and gotten the same result? Probably, but it would have taken longer. How can you make it personal? In the age of email, speaking as a podcast host, we also get A LOT of emails. So make it easy. The introduction in this case came first, then the messages, then the email to confirm the show.
A bonus tip here is to lead with value. Your pitch is about them, not you.
Crafting An Irresistible Pitch
When crafting your pitch, focus on what unique insights or experiences you can bring to the table that will benefit the podcast's audience. Lead with value and show them why you're the perfect guest and how your story aligns with their mission and values. How can you help them? Period.
And don't forget to highlight your credibility! Share any relevant achievements, accolades, or experiences that position you as an authority in your field. This will help build trust with the podcast host and increase your chances of getting booked. And it doesn't have to be other podcast episodes. Maybe you have a certification or recently experienced something their audience will relate to. Share that.
By fostering authentic connections, you'll not only improve your pitch's effectiveness but also lay the groundwork for future collaborations (read more about the power of collaboration in this post), win-win!
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Create Your Expert Buckets
I recommend having three or four expert buckets that you specialize in. These are topics that you could talk about for hours. You can customize them according to who you are pitching to fit their audience.
Leveraging Your Network: The Power of Referrals
The podcast hosting networking is a valuable one. As a host myself, if I interview someone that is amazing, shows up prepared, shares the show, and we genuinely have a great experience, I will share it over and over and over again.
One key strategy that worked wonders for us was building genuine relationships with podcast hosts. Instead of treating it as a transactional exchange, we took the time to connect with hosts on a personal level, whether it was through social media, networking events, or mutual connections. This not only made our pitches more effective, but also led to long-lasting partnerships and collaborations.
Additionally, we leveraged our existing network. Don't be afraid to reach out to friends, colleagues, or clients who have appeared on podcasts before and ask for introductions or recommendations. Word-of-mouth referrals can be incredibly powerful in getting your foot in the door.
Persistence Pays Off: The Art of the Follow-Up
Remember that just because it is a good time for you to be pitching and sharing, doesn't always mean it is for the person you are pitching. It's ok, to check in, follow-up, and have a few conversations before securing the show.
If you don't hear back from a podcast after your initial pitch, don't be discouraged. Follow up politely after a week or two to reiterate your interest and availability. Sometimes, it's just a matter of timing, and a gentle nudge can make all the difference. Behind the scenes, we have over 100 podcast applications and pitches in this year alone. And while I do make a point to respond to every single person, we simply don't have enough shows to accommodate that many people.
So just know it takes time. And in the long run, those relationships are what matters. In some cases I will pitch myself to a podcast and when the timing is off, because I have the relationship it turns into another collaboration.
The whole purpose is to put yourself out there and not be afraid to tell your story. The network you build will be invaluable. So while podcast pitching may be competitive, it's far from overused if you approach it with creativity, strategy, and persistence.
By doing your research, leading with value, highlighting your credibility, building genuine relationships, leveraging your network, and being persistent in your follow-ups, you can stand out and secure valuable podcast interviews that elevate your brand and business.
And four years in, this is a strategy that has paid off. Remember, success may not happen overnight, but with consistency and dedication, you can move mountains in your podcast pitching journey.
Bonus Tips for Effective Podcast Pitching
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Stay Organized: Keep track of your pitches, follow-ups, and responses in a spreadsheet or CRM system (we use ClickUp) to ensure nothing falls through the cracks.
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Be Flexible: Understand that podcast hosts have busy schedules and may not always be available when you initially reach out. Be open to rescheduling and accommodating their needs.
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Show Gratitude: Always thank podcast hosts for considering your pitch, whether they accept or decline. A little gratitude goes a long way in building positive relationships.
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Continuous Learning: Stay updated on podcasting trends, best practices, and new opportunities. Attend webinars, read industry blogs, and engage with other podcasters to expand your knowledge and network.
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Measure Your Success: Track the results of your podcast pitching efforts, including the number of interviews booked, audience reach, and engagement. Use this data to refine your strategy and set goals for future pitches.
By implementing these strategies and staying committed to your podcast pitching goals, you can position yourself as a sought-after guest and maximize the impact of your podcast appearances. Remember, the journey to podcasting success is a marathon, not a sprint. Keep refining your approach, building relationships, and sharing your expertise, and you'll reap the rewards in the long run.
Wondering about starting your own podcast?
I have a whole blog post full of tips for starting a podcast.
About the author
Holly Haynes is a business strategist who loves a good plan and flow chart. She is crazy passionate about teaching women like you how to build your dream job and scale to 6-figures without sacrificing your weekends or priorities.
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