I “attended” the virtual part of the League of Utah Writers’ Quills Conference recently. Next year, I hope to be able to attend in person! I really enjoyed the sessions, the scavenger hunt, and The App Game (I won a free query critique). Here’s some great advice on being a good guest host. This was by FromBook2Business.com.
How To Be a Good Guest Host: being a guest host on a podcast can increase your visibility, fan base, expertise, and sales. First, you need to determine the best type of show for you to guest on, then research that show. Keep the following in mind:
- Who is your niche listener?
- Who do you really want to reach?
- What is your expertise?
- What and why would people want to hear about from you?
- Find shows that fit your criteria
- Spend some time listening to older episodes before approaching a host
- Rank the show based on how good a fit you are for that show
- Create a spreadsheet with key information about the show
Once you decide on a show, then you need to book your appearance:
- Double check to make sure you have the correct contact information for your podcast host (email address, mailing address, phone number if available)
- Create an email to send to the host –keep the pitch personal. The host needs to get the idea that you’ve been listening to their show and understand it
- Create a concise subject line. In that line, put something that makes it plain this is a podcast guest/interview suggestion or offer, along with the exact title of your pitch
- Introduce yourself to the host. Briefly describe your background, business, what books you’ve had published, and any other podcasts you’ve been a guest on before. It’s OK to include links to your website, blog, and podcast if you have one
- To keep it personal, let the host know you have listened to their show by linking your topic back to a previous episode of your show. This also shows why your choice of topic is useful and relevant
- List the takeaways (in bullet points) that the audience can expect to receive
- Add a paragraph about how you can help the host and the show. List your strategy for promoting the podcast interview (social media, email campaign, etc.). Add stats that concern the size of your email list and social media following. This also indicates how many people view and read your content (unique visitor stats)
- Add bio information that will be needed when your offer is accepted. Include a link to your blog and website, a current photo, links to social media pages, and your calendar
- Always include a professional closing with a clear indication that you are very interested in being on their show
- Follow up if you haven’t heard back in a week or two, but avoid looking desperate or demanding
Before the Show/Practice Preparation:
- Check your calendar. The host may want to schedule a time to go over any preparation instructions. This is the time to ask any questions you might have, such as seed questions for the host to ask.
- Each host has their own style when it comes to questions. Some prefer you provide the questions, while on occasion, the host wants no questions at all.
- Double-check the interview’s starting time. Be sure you have your time zones correctly calculated
- Add alerts so you can begin preparation at least an hour ahead of time
- Exchange mobile numbers with your host
- Make sure you know how the interview will be conducted: Zoom, Skype, video or audio, etc. If you’re using Skype, be sure you have an account already
- Understand the format of the show. This will help you prepare answers that are in keeping with the tone of the program. Get a feel for the host’s style, voice, and expectations
- Follow any guest guidelines the host provides
- If the host has an assistant, work through them to avoid overwhelming the host. The assistant will keep them in the loop
- If you’re new to interviews, do a mock interview first with a friend. Have them act like the host to give you a good feel for the experience
- Check all your equipment at least an hour before show-time to be sure it’s in working order. Ensure you have a good internet connection as well as a good phone connection. Check your microphone and your headset to make sure they’re working properly
- If using Skype, make sure you’re connected. Make sure your preferences for Audio/Video have output and input set to pick up your USB microphone. Turn off notifications for any program on the computer. You don’t want any background noises interrupting you. Close any programs running in the background that could cause interference
- Set up the computer in a quiet room that can be closed off from the rest of the house (even if it’s a closet)
- Avoid having children, pets, or any distractions close to your computer during the show
- At least 10 minutes before show-time, go to the bathroom, adjust your chair in front of your computer camera, and take soothing breaths to get ready for the show
- Make notes that highlight the main points you want to address. Keep notes in bullet form as you will only be consulting them if needed
- Write down the host’s name and keep it in eyeshot so you can refer to them by name during the program
- Keep your answers clear and concise. The more you practice, the more professional and knowledgeable you’ll sound
- Speak slowly – but not in a boring way
- Be as calm and natural as possible. Avoid trying to be someone you’re not
- Enjoy the process!
Promote Your Interview:
- Use the show link given to you by the host in your promotional copy to promote your interview
- Write a blog post for your audience. Mention the date of the show and describe your appearance and the topic. Don’t forget to include the link
- Prepare messages for your other social media outlets. Include the host-approved link so they can gain quick access to the recording
- Send a thank-you note to the host and let them know you’ll welcome the chance to work with them again in the future. Although emails are great, handwritten cards are more memorable
- Connect with your host through appropriate social media channels like LinkedIn and Twitter. Continue to follow them and their podcast show
- If you have colleagues who would be a great fit for the show, let the host know. Finding outstanding guests isn’t always easy for a host
