How to Find Podcast Guests to Grow Your Audience

Online reviews have become the new word of mouth these days. One can create a strong reputation in the digital space through reviews. However, for podcasters, there is a simple way of acquiring such recommendations – invite podcast guests. Apart from amplifying your message, podcast guests can also help grow your audience. They help provide new perspectives and insights into your content, keeping your listeners engaged and inspired.  

Inviting the right guests to your podcast can also help with credibility while adding a new dimension to your episodes. You may also boost your audience as your guest's followers might tune in and even subscribe. Hence, this article will discuss a few tips to help you find podcast guests.      

Factors to Consider  

Before you go out looking for guests, there are a few factors that you need to consider. You must know the guests who would help your podcast the most. Let us look at a few of them: 

Relevance  

You must invite someone relevant to your podcast. For example, if you have a fitness-related podcast, you must invite someone who belongs to that industry. The relevance of your guest is directly proportional to the quality of content. On the other hand, bringing in general guests who are not experts in your area may hurt your brand recognition. Additionally, you cannot expect them to promote their appearance on the show as well.   

Outreach  

If you wish to reach any particular audience, you must look for someone who influences such a group. Similarly, if you want to reach a larger audience, you can invite someone who can influence a wider range of people. You might also need to spend some money on your guests' fees if you target specific groups. However, it should be worth it as you will likely witness an increase in your sales due to your guests.  

Budget  

Since you might find podcast guests who can charge for an appearance, you must have a dedicated budget for it. This becomes crucial when targeting a high-profile guest to reach a larger audience. Therefore, keeping your budget in mind while inviting guests to your podcast is necessary. You should also look for guests willing to appear for free or at nominal costs.  

Schedule  

Now that you have taken care of all the above factors, you must think about your schedule and have enough time for planning, recording, and editing each episode. This will help prevent you from overwhelming yourself and missing your deadline. You can plan your episodes a few weeks in advance. This will give you enough time to line up your guests, schedule their interviews, and prepare everything before recording. 

Read Also: Starting a Business Podcast to Grow Your Business 

How to Find Guests  

Now that you know what kind of guests to invite to your podcast, it is time to find them. Here are some tricks to help you find podcast guests:   

Social Media and Online Communities 

These days you can look for anything on social media platforms. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn are great places for finding reputable podcast guests. They can also provide you with enough information regarding your guest's background. You can find everything from their opinions, credentials, and accomplishments on these platforms. Therefore, try to join networks that are relevant to your area. You can also follow conversations to identify the right guest. Reach out to them and make a connection.   

Audience's Opinion  

In all likelihood, your listeners may follow people who share similar interests and passions. Therefore, the easiest way to find the right guest is to consult your listeners. This will engage your listeners and make them feel appreciated and heard. Encourage them to share their perspectives about the topics they like and whom they want to listen to. You can use online channels or callouts in your episode for this purpose.     

Networking 

If you have successfully hosted a guest on your show, they will likely connect you with their colleagues and known associates who can also be ideal podcast guests. You can also reach out to your friends and family members and ask them for their personal referees. You can also attend networking events, trade shows, and conferences to maximize your opportunities to meet potential guests. These places may also help you connect with various podcast communities and professionals.     

Related Podcasts  

You can also check out podcasts that deal with similar topics and find who they have invited as guests. You can also reach out to their hosts and explore other opportunities. You can easily invite them to be your guest. If you are lucky, they might even return the favor. You may also promote bloggers and influencers, as it will help you grow your audience. 

Read Also: Starting a Podcast: A Definitive Guide to Podcasting

Guest Booking Services  

Several online guest booking platforms help in matching podcasters with ideal guests. You can easily avail yourself of platforms like Podbooker, Podchaser, and PodcastGuests. They will point you in the direction of such people who can keep your listeners engaged with their knowledge and experience.  

It may appear easy but finding the ideal podcast guest can sometimes become challenging. You must target someone who shares your values, mission, and, most importantly, your expertise. Additionally, you would also like a person who is approachable and easy to talk to. However, if you can find the right podcast guests, they will grow your audience and enlighten you.