How to be a Good Guest on a Podcast

Appearing as a guest on a podcast can be a valuable opportunity for promoting your brand and connecting with new audiences. However, to make the most of this opportunity, it’s important to be a good guest and to make a positive impression.

This post will provide tips and guidance for being a good guest on a podcast, and to help you make the most of this opportunity. Congratulations on being asked to be on a podcast, that is a big deal. We are here to help you promote your brand and connect with this new audience. Whether you are a seasoned pro or a first-time guest, these tips will help you to be successful and confident on your next podcast appearance.

This is a guide for someone being invited onto a podcast. If you’re looking for the reverse, here is our guide for the Proper Etiquette for Hosting a Podcast Guest.

 

Preparation

Preparation is key when it comes to being a good guest on a podcast. By taking the time to properly prepare, you’ll be able to make the most of your appearance and leave a lasting impression on the host and listeners. Here are a few key preparation tips to keep in mind:

 

Research the Podcast and Host

Before appearing as a guest on a podcast, you’ll want to research both the podcast and the host. This means finding out what the podcast is about, who the target audience is, and what the host’s style and approach is like. By researching the podcast and host in advance, you’ll be better prepared to engage with the host and listeners, and to tailor your responses to their interests and preferences. 

 

Prepare Your Introduction and Talking Points

While researching the podcast and host, take note on how they introduce their guests. This is also important to prepare your introduction and talking points. If they don’t get into any questions immediately, and ask you to introduce yourself, be prepared and have a clear and concise way of introducing yourself. Also have a few key points that you want to highlight during the podcast. By preparing your introduction and talking points in advance, you’ll be able to stay on track and focused during the podcast.

 

Familiarize Yourself with the Format and Style of the Podcast

Before appearing as a guest on a podcast, familiarize yourself with the format and style of the podcast. Pay attention to the length of the podcast, the format of the conversation, and the type of questions that the host is likely to ask. This will allow you to be more confident and won’t be too caught off guard with anything the host asks.

 

Know The Audience

When appearing as a guest on a podcast, it’s important to know your audience. This means understanding who the listeners are, what their interests are, and what type of information they are looking for. By knowing the audience, you’ll be better able to tailor your responses to their interests and preferences, and to engage with them in a meaningful way.

 

Practice Your Delivery

Finally, you may want to practice your delivery before appearing as a guest on a podcast. This means rehearsing your introduction and talking points, and paying attention to your tone, pace, and volume. By practicing your delivery, you’ll be better prepared to connect with the host and audience, and to deliver your message in a confident and compelling way. This point is especially crucial if you’re the nervous type or uncomfortable with public speaking. If you can practice, it will make a difference.

 

Authenticity

One aspect of being a great guest on a podcast is authenticity. In order to connect with the host and audience and make the most of your appearance, it’s crucial that you be yourself and share your expertise and experiences in an open and honest way. Despite telling you to practice, you also need to be your true self.

 

Be Yourself

Some of the best podcast episodes I’ve heard are the ones you can tell the guest is being theirself. For you this means being true to your personality, your beliefs, and your experiences. You should have your own opinions and not be scared to disagree with the host. You can always disagree in a polite way and you don’t have to go ahead with everything the host says just to be polite. By being yourself, you will come across as genuine and relatable, and will be more likely to connect with the host and audience.

 

Share Your Expertise and Experiences

As a guest on a podcast, you will have the opportunity to share your expertise and experiences with a wider audience. This can help to establish you as a thought leader and expert in your field, and can also help to promote your brand and your work. By sharing your expertise and experiences, you might also help people in the process or make them laugh at a funny story of yours.

 

Be Open and Honest

When you appear as a guest on a podcast, it’s important to be open and honest. This means being transparent about your experiences, your motivations, and your beliefs. By being open and honest, you will build trust with the host and audience, and will be more likely to leave a lasting impression. You’ll also avoid being called out for something that isn’t true. Remember, this podcast goes out to the world to hear. If you are untruthful, someone who may know the real truth may just hear the episode. There are even fact checker websites that have disproven stuff mentioned on popular podcasts.

 

Avoid Being Overly Scripted

While we’ve already told you to be prepared when appearing as a guest on a podcast, it’s also important to avoid being too scripted. This means avoiding reading from a script, and instead allowing the conversation to flow naturally. Being overly scripted can come across as stiff and inauthentic, and can also detract from the natural flow of the conversation. 

 

Communication Skills

One of the most important aspects of being a good guest on a podcast is having strong communication skills. Whether you are speaking with the host or engaging with the listeners, your ability to communicate effectively can make or break your appearance on a podcast. Here are some tips for improving your communication skills when appearing as a guest on a podcast.

 

Speak Clearly and Confidently

When you are speaking on a podcast, you should speak clearly and confidently. This means projecting your voice, speaking at a steady pace, and avoiding filler words such as “umm,” “like,” “you know,” and “ah.” Practicing your delivery beforehand can help to ensure that you sound confident and professional when you are recording.

 

Use Your Body Language

In addition to speaking clearly and confidently, it’s also important to use your body language effectively. This means making eye contact, smiling, and using gestures to emphasize your points. Good body language can help to build rapport with the host and listeners, and can also help to convey your enthusiasm and passion for the topic. If it’s a video podcast, it’s even more crucial.  With an audio-only podcast, the host will be able to understand you further during the interview.

 

Be an Active Listener

If you can only remember one point from this article, let it be this one. Being an active listener is likely the biggest part of effective communication in general. This is also true when appearing on a podcast. This means paying close attention to what the host and other guests are saying, and responding in a thoughtful and engaged manner. By being an active listener, you will be able to engage more effectively with the conversation, and to demonstrate your interest in the topic and the podcast.

 

A critical mistake people make all the time in conversations is they get focused on what they want to say next. The person listening will hear something that the speaker is saying and they’ll put it in their memory to speak about next. Then they’ll ignore the rest of the words until the person speaking stops talking to say their point. This is not effective communication, and you’re better off not worrying about what to say next. This will allow you to be present and not miss what the speaker is actually trying to tell you.

 

Be an Active Participant

Being an active participant in the podcast means listening to the host and the other guests, and contributing to the conversation in meaningful and insightful ways. This requires paying attention to the topic at hand, and being prepared to share your expertise and experiences when appropriate.

Ask Questions

Asking questions is a great way to show your interest in the host and the topic of the podcast. This not only demonstrates your engagement and expertise, but also helps to keep the conversation flowing and to maintain the interest of the listeners.

 

Share Your Thoughts and Opinions

Sharing your thoughts and opinions on the topics discussed on the podcast can help to make you more relatable and engaging to the listeners. This can also help to establish you as an expert in your field, and can encourage the audience to seek out your work and advice.

 

Tips for Delivering a Great Podcast Interview

Delivering a great podcast interview requires a combination of preparation, confidence, and authenticity. Here are some tips to help you shine as a guest on a podcast:

 

Be Confident and Natural

The more comfortable and relaxed you are, the better you will perform. Remember to breathe, take your time, and let your personality shine through.

 

Use Analogies and Examples to Illustrate Your Points

Using real-life examples to support your ideas can help make your message more engaging and memorable.

 

Be Prepared to Share Your Thoughts and Opinions

A podcast is a platform for sharing your unique perspective and expertise. Don’t be afraid to share your opinions and thoughts, as long as you do so respectfully.

 

Be Open to Spontaneous Conversations

The best podcast conversations are often unscripted and spontaneous. Be open to exploring new topics and tangents, and trust that the host will guide you in the right direction.

Professionalism

Professionalism is key when appearing as a guest on a podcast. In order to leave a lasting impression and to demonstrate your expertise and credibility, it’s important to adhere to a professional standard. Here are four tips for maintaining professionalism on a podcast:

 

Dress Appropriately

Your appearance matters, especially when appearing on a podcast. Make sure to dress appropriately for the type of podcast you’re appearing on, and choose attire that reflects your personal style and brand. If you’re unsure of what to wear, it’s always better to on the side of dressing up rather than dressing down.

 

Be On Time and Reliable

Arriving late or not showing up at all can leave a negative impression and can damage your professional reputation. We’ve seen people arrive late to our studio and there is a weird tension when the guest or host is irritated before the recording even starts. Make sure to be on time and to be reliable, especially when appearing as a guest on a podcast. This demonstrates that you value the host’s time and that you are serious about the opportunity. They may also be paying for studio time.

 

Have Good Technical Equipment and Internet Connection

If you’re doing a remote podcast recording, you will want to think about your equipment in advance. The quality of the recording is important, so make sure to have good technical equipment and a strong internet connection. We aren’t saying go out and buy expensive equipment for a one time appearance, but if you are regularly making podcast appearances, you will want your audio to sound good. Especially if you are on a podcast to promote something. Good equipment includes using a high-quality microphone, headphones, and a stable internet connection. Make sure to test your equipment ahead of time, and to have a backup plan in case of technical difficulties.

 

Be Respectful of the Host and Podcast Format

When appearing as a guest on a podcast, it’s important to be respectful of the host and the podcast format. This means adhering to the host’s instructions, and avoiding interruptions or distracting behavior. This doesn’t mean always agreeing with the opinions of the host. Try not talking over the host and letting them finish their thoughts. By being respectful, you can help to ensure a positive experience for both the host and the listeners.

 

Here is an example of a guest that annoys the podcast host:

 

Promoting Your Brand

As a guest on a podcast, you have the opportunity to promote your brand and connect with new audiences. Here are a few tips for making the most of this opportunity:

 

Be Prepared to Discuss Your Work

You may have been asked on a podcast because of the type of work or research you have done. This could be a likely reason the host wanted you on his show in the first place. This means having a clear understanding of what you do and what you have to offer, and being able to articulate this in a compelling way. Be ready to discuss your latest projects, your goals, and what sets you apart from others in your field.

 

Share Your Contact Information

Make sure to share your contact information with the host and listeners. This can include your website, social media handles, and email address. The podcast host will likely ask where people can find you. Make sure to review your contact info so you give an accurate answer. If listeners reach out to you, and be sure to follow up with anyone who makes contact.

 

Offer Exclusive Content or Promotions

Consider offering exclusive content or promotions to listeners of the podcast. This can include discount codes, free resources, or early access to new products or services. This will give listeners a reason to tune in, and can help to build your brand and grow your following.

 

Utilize Social Media and Your Website

Finally, be sure to promote your appearance on the podcast through your social media channels and your website. Share links to the podcast, and encourage your followers to listen in. This will help to increase the reach of your brand, and will allow you to connect with new audiences. This will go a long way with the podcast host for the show you were just on.

 

Follow Up After the Podcast

After appearing as a guest on a podcast, it’s important to follow up with the host and listeners. This can help to maintain the relationship you’ve established, and can also help to promote your brand and your work. Here are some tips for following up after your podcast appearance:

 

Thank the Host

Be sure to thank the host for inviting you onto the podcast, and for their time and effort in hosting the show. A simple email or message can go a long way in showing your appreciation, and can also help to build a strong relationship with the host. You don’t want to close the door on being  invited back one day.

 

Share the Podcast with Your Followers

Promote your appearance on the podcast by sharing it with your followers on social media, your email list, and your website. This can help to drive traffic to the podcast, and can also help to increase your visibility and reach. Encourage listeners to tune into the podcast by sharing the link to the episode, and by promoting the show to your followers

 

By following up after your podcast appearance, you can help to maintain the relationship you’ve established, and can also help to promote your brand and your work. Always make an effort to stay connected, and to keep your followers and listeners engaged with your content and your brand.

 

Follow Up with Any Promised Content or Offerings

If you promised the host or listeners any exclusive content or promotions, make sure to follow up and deliver on your promises. This will show your commitment to delivering value to the podcast community, and will help you establish a reputation as a valuable guest.

 

Be Respectful of the Host’s Time and Agenda

When appearing as a guest on a podcast, it’s important to be respectful of the host’s time and agenda. The host has a specific plan for the podcast and you should work with them to ensure that the conversation stays on track and within the allotted time frame. Here are a few tips to help you be respectful of the host’s time and agenda:

 

Be Mindful of Your Responses

It’s important to be mindful of the length of your responses and avoid going off-topic or rambling. Stick to the topic at hand and try to keep your answers concise and to the point. This will help to keep the podcast moving along smoothly and stay within its allotted time frame.

 

Stay on Topic

When appearing on a podcast, it’s important to stay on topic. This means avoiding going off on tangents or veering away from the main topic of discussion. By staying focused and on-topic, you’ll be able to keep the conversation engaging and informative for the listeners. It will also make it easier for the listeners to follow.

 

Work with the Host to Stay within Allotted Time

Finally, you’ll want to work with the host to stay within the allotted time frame. This means being mindful of the clock and avoiding lengthy conversations or discussions that could take up too much time. By working together with the host, you can ensure that the podcast stays within its allotted time frame and provides a great experience for the listeners. Sometimes a host will want you to give detailed answers, and other times they’ll want to get straight to the point. Don’t be afraid of saying something along the lines of, “That’s a long story, do we have time?” This will allow the host to direct what they want in terms of podcast content.

 

Avoid Being Salesy

One of the most important things to keep in mind when appearing as a guest on a podcast is to avoid being too salesy. While you may be tempted to use your appearance on the podcast as an opportunity to promote your brand and sell your products or services, it’s important to be mindful of the type of impression you’re making on the listeners. People see right through someone who is trying to focus on making a sale versus someone demonstrating expertise through conversation.

 

Avoid Hard-Sell Tactics

When you’re appearing on a podcast, it’s best to avoid using hard-sell tactics, such as high-pressure sales pitches or aggressive marketing messages. These types of tactics can come across as inauthentic and may turn listeners off.

 

Focus on Providing Value

Instead of focusing on selling your products or services, focus on providing real value to the listeners. Share your expertise and experiences, offer insights and tips, and engage in meaningful conversations. By providing real value, you’ll be more likely to gain the trust and interest of the listeners.

 

Gain Trust by Offering Real Value

By offering real value to the listeners, you’ll be more likely to gain their trust and interest in what you have to offer. This can lead to increased engagement, and can help to establish you as a thought leader and expert in your field. People can do their own research into your products or services, you’re better off demonstrating your expertise than to focus on your products.

 

Focus on Building Relationships

Building strong relationships is an important aspect of being a good guest on a podcast. Whether you are a seasoned professional or a first-time guest, it’s important to connect with the host and to engage with the listeners. Here are some tips for building relationships:

 

Connect with the Host

Building a good relationship with the host can lead to repeat appearances on their podcast, as well as recommendations to other podcast hosts. Make an effort to get to know the host, and to build a rapport with them. You can do this by asking about their interests, experiences, and background, and by being genuinely interested in what they have to say. Going back to a previous point, arrive early. By arriving early, you’ll get a chance to talk with the host before you begin the podcast. Having already established rapport before recording, you’ll likely have a smoother conversation.

 

Engage with the Listeners

Another important way to build relationships is by engaging with the listeners. This means responding to comments, answering questions from listeners. By doing so, you will be able to build a connection with the listeners, and to establish yourself as a thought leader and expert in your field.

 

Establish Yourself as a Thought Leader and Expert

By appearing as a guest on a podcast, you have the opportunity to showcase your expertise and to establish yourself as a thought leader in your field. This means sharing your insights, experiences, and perspectives, and demonstrating your knowledge and expertise on a particular topic. By doing so, you will be able to build your brand and to connect with new audiences.

 

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Doing Enough Preparation

One of the biggest mistakes that guests make when appearing on a podcast is not doing enough preparation. This can include not researching the podcast, the host, or the audience, as well as not having a clear idea of what you would like to discuss. This is a missed opportunity, the audience is familiar already with the host and topics he discusses. If you are familiar and have done the proper preparations, you’ll be able to dive in and discuss things at a higher level. This will keep the audience engaged.

 

Not Being Yourself

Another common mistake is not being yourself on the podcast. This can mean trying to sound too professional, not showing your personality, or not being open and honest with the host and listeners. Don’t try to be someone you think the audience will want to hear from. Be true to who you are.

 

Being Too Salesy

As discussed earlier, another common mistake that guests make is being too salesy on the podcast. This can mean talking too much about your products or services, rather than providing valuable content and insights for the listeners.

 

Failing to Follow Up After the Podcast

Finally, it’s important to follow up after the podcast appearance, by thanking the host, sharing the episode with your followers, and connecting with the listeners on social media. Failure to do so can mean missing out on valuable opportunities to build relationships and promote your brand. You will have also wasted the opportunity to build your following by ignoring comments, or questions from listeners of that podcast.

 

Best Practices for Preparing for a Podcast Interview

Make a List of Topics You’d Like to Discuss

It’s important to have a clear understanding of the topics you’d like to cover during your podcast appearance. This will help you stay focused and on track during the interview. Write down a list of key points and topics that you’d like to discuss, and make sure to share this with the host in advance. This will give the host an idea of what to expect and help ensure that the conversation flows smoothly. You can also write down a couple of topics to avoid. We’ve seen people talk about legal information that needed to be cut out later for the final edited podcast. That could have been avoided in advance.

 

Review the Podcast’s Previous Episodes

Before appearing on a podcast, it’s a good idea to listen to several of the previous episodes. Even if you are friends with the host, it’s a good idea to at least familiarize yourself with their content. This will give you an understanding of the tone, format, and style of the podcast, as well as the type of audience it attracts. This information can help you tailor your message and make sure you’re presenting yourself in the best possible light.

 

Prepare Your Introduction and Elevator Pitch

Your introduction is the first impression you’ll make on the podcast audience, so it’s important to make it count. Prepare a brief introduction that highlights your expertise. Sometimes it’s difficult discussing yourself, so this practice should help. This should be concise and to the point, and should be something that you feel confident delivering. Additionally, be prepared with a quick elevator pitch that summarizes your background and what you bring to the table.

 

Research the Host’s Background and Interests

Take the time to learn about the host and their background, as well as their interests and passions. This information can help you make a connection with the host, and can also help you tailor your message to the audience. Showing that you’ve done your homework and that you’re knowledgeable about the host’s background can help establish trust and credibility. You can establish rapport much easier by mentioning a common interest or mutual connection you found while researching.

How to Promote Your Podcast Appearance

Promoting your podcast appearance is an important step to ensure that your message reaches a wide audience and has a lasting impact. Here are some best practices for promoting your podcast appearance:

 

Share the Announcement with Your Followers

Let your followers know about your upcoming podcast appearance by sharing the announcement on social media, email, or other channels. Encourage them to tune in and share the news with their network.

Create a Blog Post or Press Release

Create a blog post or press release to announce your podcast appearance and provide additional information about the topic you’ll be discussing. Share this content on your website and social media channels to reach a wider audience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, being a guest on a podcast is a great opportunity to reach new audiences and promote your brand. By following the tips outlined in this post, you can go from a podcast guest to a great podcast guest. 

 

The key to success as a podcast guest is preparation. It’s important to research the podcast, the host, and the audience to ensure that you are tailored to the needs of the show. Additionally, being authentic and engaging with the host and listeners will help to create a memorable and impactful appearance. Ensure that you are well-prepared and confident when it comes time to be on the show. Remember that the most important thing is to be yourself and have fun.

 

Finally, building relationships with the host and listeners is essential. By following up after the podcast and promoting your appearance, you can solidify the connections you made and continue to grow your reach and influence. With a little preparation and authenticity, anyone can be a great guest on a podcast!