This guide, Essential Steps to Perfect Your Podcast Guest Preparation, is designed specifically for small business owners with little to no marketing knowledge who want to leverage podcast guest appearances to grow their customer base. By working through this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to prepare effectively for a podcast interview, ensuring you communicate your message clearly, confidently, and in a way that resonates with the audience. Investing your time in this guide will not only help you make a strong and lasting impression during your podcast appearances but also maximise the impact of your efforts, turning listeners into potential customers and driving real business growth with minimal investment.
Why Podcast Guest Preparation is Essential
Podcast guesting is a powerful way for small business owners to reach new audiences, share their expertise, and attract new customers. However, to make the most of this opportunity, preparation is key. By preparing thoroughly, you ensure that your appearance is impactful, professional, and memorable. Proper preparation helps you communicate your message clearly, engage the audience effectively, and align with the host’s objectives. It’s about making a lasting impression that translates into real business growth.
Bringing Your Podcast Guest A-Game
To stand out as a podcast guest, you need to bring your A-game. This means being confident, well-prepared, and engaging throughout the interview. Here's how to do it:
Clarify Your Objectives: Before anything else, decide what you want to achieve from your podcast appearance. Are you looking to build brand awareness, generate leads, or establish yourself as an authority in your industry? Knowing your goals will help shape your message and guide your preparation.
Research the Podcast and Host: Listen to previous episodes to understand the podcast’s format, tone, and audience. Learn about the host’s background, style, and what they aim to achieve with their podcast. This insight will allow you to tailor your message to resonate with both the host and the listeners.
Develop Your Key Talking Points: Based on your objectives and the podcast’s audience, create a list of key points you want to cover. Keep these points simple, clear, and relevant. Make sure they align with what the podcast’s audience is interested in and what you want them to take away from your appearance.
Practice Your Delivery: Rehearse your talking points aloud to ensure you’re comfortable with them. Practise telling stories and providing examples that support your key points. This will help you sound natural and confident during the interview.
Be Prepared For The Unexpected
Even with thorough preparation, unexpected challenges can arise during a podcast interview. Being ready to handle these situations with poise can make all the difference. Here’s how to stay prepared:
Technical Issues: Test your equipment before the interview. Ensure your microphone, internet connection, and recording environment are all functioning properly. Have a backup plan, such as a second device or an alternative internet connection, in case of technical difficulties.
Unexpected Questions: While you can anticipate many of the questions, there might be some that catch you off guard. Stay calm, take a moment to think, and respond thoughtfully. If you don’t know the answer, it’s okay to admit it and offer to follow up later with more information.
Time Management: Podcasts can sometimes run longer or shorter than expected. Be flexible with your time but also mindful of keeping your responses concise to avoid going off-track. If the host leads the conversation in an unexpected direction, try to steer it back towards your key points where possible.
By being thoroughly prepared and ready for the unexpected, you can confidently deliver a podcast appearance that leaves a strong, positive impression and helps to grow your business.
Download and print the 'Podcast Guest Preparation Checklist'. This way you can mark each task off as you follow each step of this guide.
Step 1: Understanding the Podcast Host’s Objectives
To make the most of your podcast guest appearance, it’s crucial to understand the host’s objectives. By doing so, you can tailor your message to align with their goals, ensuring a more impactful and collaborative interview. Here’s how to do it:
Research the Host’s Background and Expertise
Action Steps:
Visit the Podcast Website: Start by visiting the podcast’s website or the host’s personal website. Look for a bio or an “About” section that gives you insight into their background, expertise, and interests.
Explore Their Social Media Profiles: Check the host’s LinkedIn, Twitter, or other social media profiles. This can give you additional information about their professional experience, interests, and recent activities.
Listen to Previous Episodes: Spend some time listening to episodes where the host shares their own experiences or viewpoints. Pay attention to any recurring themes or topics they are passionate about.
Why This Matters: Understanding the host’s background helps you connect with them on a more personal level. It also allows you to tailor your talking points to complement their expertise and interests, making the conversation more engaging for both the host and the audience.
Understand the Host’s Goals for the Podcast
Action Steps:
Identify the Podcast’s Purpose: Listen to the introduction of a few episodes or read the podcast’s description. This often outlines the podcast’s primary goal—whether it’s to educate, entertain, inspire, or inform its audience.
Analyse the Guest List: Look at previous guests and the topics they’ve discussed. This can give you a sense of what the host values in a guest and what they aim to achieve with each episode.
Note the Host’s Style: Is the host more focused on storytelling, providing practical advice, or discussing industry trends? Understanding this will help you align your approach with what the host is aiming to deliver.
Why This Matters: Knowing the podcast’s goals allows you to tailor your message to fit within the broader context of the show. This alignment increases the likelihood of a successful appearance that resonates with the audience.
Align Your Message with the Host’s Objectives
Action Steps:
Match Your Expertise to the Podcast’s Theme: Identify the aspects of your experience or business that best align with the podcast’s themes. Focus on these areas during your interview.
Prepare Talking Points that Support the Host’s Goals: Develop talking points that not only showcase your business but also support the podcast’s objectives. For example, if the podcast is aimed at educating listeners, prepare actionable advice or insights that can provide real value.
Discuss Your Approach with the Host (if possible): If you have the opportunity to communicate with the host before the interview, share your planned talking points and ask if there’s anything specific they would like you to cover. This ensures that you’re both on the same page.
Why This Matters: Aligning your message with the host’s objectives helps to create a cohesive and valuable episode. It also increases the chances that the host will promote your appearance, leading to greater exposure and potentially more customers for your business.
By thoroughly understanding and aligning with the host’s objectives, you set the stage for a successful podcast appearance that not only benefits the host and audience but also supports your business goals.
Step 2: Familiarising Yourself with the Podcast Format
To ensure your podcast appearance is as effective as possible, it's important to familiarise yourself with the podcast's format. Understanding the structure, flow, and style of the podcast will help you prepare your message and delivery in a way that fits seamlessly with the host’s usual approach. Here’s how you can do it:
Listen to Previous Episodes to Understand the Structure
Action Steps:
Select Relevant Episodes: Start by choosing three to five episodes that feature guests similar to yourself or that cover topics related to your business. This will give you a good idea of how your interview might be structured.
Take Notes on the Episode Structure: As you listen, pay attention to how the episode is organised. Note the introduction, the main discussion points, how the host transitions between topics, and how the episode concludes.
Observe the Host’s Interaction Style: Notice how the host interacts with guests—do they ask direct questions, allow for open conversation, or guide the discussion with a specific agenda? Understanding this will help you anticipate how to engage during your interview.
Why This Matters: Knowing the podcast’s structure helps you to prepare in a way that fits the established format. This ensures that your contribution feels natural and well-integrated into the episode.
Identify the Typical Flow of Conversations
Action Steps:
Map Out the Conversation Flow: As you listen to the episodes, map out the general flow of the conversation. Does the host start with background questions, then move into deeper topics, and finally wrap up with a call to action or closing thoughts?
Note Any Recurring Segments: Identify if there are recurring segments, such as quick-fire questions, guest introductions, or audience Q&A sessions. Being aware of these will help you prepare appropriately for each part of the conversation.
Prepare for Transition Points: Understand how the host transitions between topics. This will allow you to prepare for these moments and know when to steer the conversation back to your key points if necessary.
Why This Matters: Understanding the flow of conversation allows you to prepare your talking points in a way that fits naturally into the discussion. It also helps you manage your time during the interview, ensuring you cover all your important points.
Note the Length and Style of Each Episode
Action Steps:
Track Episode Lengths: Take note of how long each episode typically lasts. This will help you manage your talking points and ensure you don’t run out of time before covering everything you want to discuss.
Analyse the Style of the Podcast: Determine whether the podcast has a casual, conversational style or a more formal, structured approach. Is the tone light-hearted or more serious? Understanding this will help you match your delivery style to the podcast’s tone.
Adjust Your Preparation Accordingly: If the episodes are short and punchy, focus on delivering concise, impactful points. If they are longer and more in-depth, prepare to delve into your topics with more detail.
Why This Matters: Matching your preparation to the podcast’s style and length ensures that your appearance is well-received by the audience and the host. It also helps you to stay within the expected time limits, making for a smoother and more professional interview.
By familiarising yourself with the podcast’s format, you can tailor your preparation to fit seamlessly into the episode, ensuring a polished and impactful guest appearance that resonates with the audience and supports your business goals.
Step 3: Clarifying Your Own Objectives
Before stepping into the podcast spotlight, it's crucial to clarify your own objectives. Knowing what you want to achieve from the interview will help you stay focused, deliver your message effectively, and ultimately make a bigger impact. Here’s how to ensure your podcast appearance aligns with your business goals:
Define Your Goals for the Appearance
Action Steps:
Determine Your Primary Objective: Start by identifying the main reason you’re appearing on the podcast. Ask yourself, "What do I want to accomplish through this appearance?" Your goal might be to increase brand awareness, generate leads, position yourself as an industry expert, or promote a specific product or service.
Consider Your Long-Term Business Goals: Think about how this podcast appearance fits into your broader business strategy. Are you looking to expand into new markets, reach a particular audience, or establish a reputation in a specific niche? Make sure your podcast goals align with these larger ambitions.
Prioritise Your Goals: If you have multiple objectives, rank them in order of importance. This will help you focus on what matters most during the interview and avoid diluting your message.
Why This Matters: Clearly defined goals give you direction and purpose during your podcast appearance. They ensure that every point you make supports your overall business strategy, leading to more tangible outcomes from the interview.
Identify Key Takeaways You Want the Audience to Remember
Action Steps:
Choose 2-3 Core Messages: Identify the key points you want the audience to remember after listening to the podcast. These should be directly related to your goals and provide value to the listeners. For example, if you’re promoting a service, one takeaway might be why your service solves a specific problem.
Craft Your Messages Simply and Clearly: Your key takeaways should be easy to understand and memorable. Avoid jargon or overly complex language. Think about what will resonate most with the audience and how you can express it succinctly.
Prepare Supporting Stories or Examples: To reinforce your key messages, prepare relevant stories, examples, or case studies that illustrate your points. This not only makes your messages more relatable but also helps them stick in the listeners’ minds.
Integrate Takeaways Naturally into the Conversation: Plan how to naturally weave your key takeaways into the conversation. This might be through answering the host’s questions or steering the discussion towards your core messages.
Why This Matters: By focusing on a few key takeaways, you ensure that your message is clear and impactful. This increases the chances that the audience will remember what you said, leading to stronger engagement and a higher likelihood of converting listeners into customers.
By defining your goals and identifying key takeaways, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your podcast appearance. This clarity ensures that your message resonates with the audience and drives meaningful results for your business.
Step 4: Crafting and Refining Your Message
Crafting and refining your message is a critical step in ensuring your podcast appearance is effective and resonates with the audience. By preparing your core talking points and tailoring your message, you can communicate clearly and leave the listeners with something valuable they can act on. Here’s how to do it:
Develop Core Talking Points Aligned with Your Goals
Action Steps:
Refer to Your Objectives: Start by revisiting the goals you defined in the previous step. Your talking points should directly support these objectives. For example, if your goal is to promote a new product, one of your talking points should highlight the unique benefits of that product.
List Key Points: Write down 3-5 core talking points that align with your goals. These points should be concise, easy to remember, and directly related to the purpose of your appearance. For example:
The unique value your business offers.
A success story that demonstrates your expertise.
The benefits of your products or services.
Ensure Clarity and Simplicity: Refine your talking points to make them clear and straightforward. Avoid using industry jargon or overly complex language that might confuse the audience. Your aim is to communicate your message in a way that everyone can understand.
Why This Matters: Well-developed talking points keep your conversation focused and ensure that your key messages are delivered effectively, helping you achieve your podcast goals.
Tailor Your Message to the Podcast’s Audience
Action Steps:
Understand the Audience: Use the insights you gained from researching the podcast to tailor your message. Consider the audience’s interests, challenges, and what they are likely looking for in a podcast episode. Are they beginners in your industry, or more experienced professionals? Tailor your language and content accordingly.
Relate Your Message to the Audience’s Needs: Adjust your talking points to address the specific needs or interests of the audience. For example, if you’re speaking on a podcast that targets small business owners, focus on how your product or service can help them solve a common problem they face.
Use Relevant Examples: Incorporate examples, stories, or analogies that resonate with the audience’s experience. The more relatable your message, the more likely it is to make an impact.
Why This Matters: Tailoring your message to the audience ensures that your content is relevant and engaging, increasing the likelihood that listeners will connect with your message and take action.
Ensure to Give the Audience an Actionable Golden Takeaway
Action Steps:
Identify Your Golden Takeaway: Think of one key actionable point you want the audience to remember and act upon after the podcast. This could be a practical tip, a piece of advice, or a specific action they can take that ties back to your business.
Make It Specific and Actionable: Your golden takeaway should be something the audience can easily implement. For example, "Try our free online tool to streamline your invoicing process" is more actionable than a general suggestion to "improve your invoicing."
Highlight the Golden Takeaway During the Interview: Make sure to clearly state your golden takeaway during the podcast. You might repeat it at the end or encourage listeners to visit your website or follow up with a specific call to action.
Link It to Your Core Message: Ensure your golden takeaway is directly connected to your core talking points and overall objectives. This helps reinforce your message and makes the takeaway more meaningful.
Why This Matters: An actionable golden takeaway leaves the audience with something of real value, increasing the chances they will engage with your business after the podcast. It’s a powerful way to turn listeners into potential customers.
By crafting and refining your message, you’ll be well-prepared to communicate effectively during your podcast appearance. This preparation ensures that your key points are delivered clearly, resonate with the audience, and leave a lasting, actionable impression.
Step 5: Preparing Engaging Stories and Examples
Stories and examples are powerful tools in any podcast appearance. They help to illustrate your points, making your message more relatable and memorable for the audience. By preparing engaging stories and examples in advance, you can ensure that your podcast appearance is impactful and leaves a lasting impression. Here’s how to do it:
Select Relevant Stories That Illustrate Your Points
Action Steps:
Review Your Core Talking Points: Begin by revisiting the key talking points you’ve developed. Identify where a story or example could help to reinforce each point. For example, if one of your points is about the effectiveness of your product, think of a customer success story that highlights this.
Choose Stories That Resonate: Select stories that are directly related to your business and that your target audience can easily relate to. Consider using real-life examples from your own experiences or your customers’ experiences. The more specific and relevant the story, the more impactful it will be.
Keep It Simple and Focused: Ensure each story is concise and focused on illustrating a single point. Avoid overloading the story with too many details that might detract from the main message. The goal is to make your point clear and memorable through a compelling narrative.
Ensure Credibility: Where possible, include specific details that add credibility to your stories, such as measurable outcomes or direct quotes from satisfied customers. This will make your stories more convincing and trustworthy.
Why This Matters: Well-chosen stories and examples make your talking points more relatable and engaging, helping the audience to connect with your message on a deeper level.
Practice Telling These Stories in an Engaging Manner
Action Steps:
Rehearse Your Stories Aloud: Practise telling your stories out loud to ensure they flow naturally. Focus on keeping your narrative clear and engaging, and ensure that the story effectively illustrates the point you want to make.
Use a Conversational Tone: Aim to tell your stories in a way that feels natural and conversational, as if you were sharing them with a friend. This will help you come across as authentic and relatable during the podcast.
Emphasise Key Points: As you practise, focus on emphasising the key points of your story. Use pauses, changes in tone, or a slightly slower pace to highlight the most important parts of the narrative. This will help the audience to remember the key takeaways.
Adjust for Timing: Be mindful of the time you have during the podcast. Practise telling your stories in different lengths—both a full version and a shorter, summarised version—so that you can adapt depending on the flow of the interview.
Seek Feedback: If possible, practise telling your stories in front of a colleague, friend, or mentor and ask for their feedback. They can help you identify any areas where you might need to clarify or adjust your delivery.
Why This Matters: Practising your stories ensures that you can deliver them confidently and effectively during the podcast. A well-told story captures the audience’s attention and makes your message more memorable, increasing the likelihood that listeners will take action.
By preparing and practising engaging stories and examples, you’ll be ready to make a strong impact during your podcast appearance. These stories will not only illustrate your points but also create a connection with the audience, helping to drive your business goals forward.
Step 6: Anticipating Questions
One of the keys to a successful podcast appearance is being well-prepared for the questions that may come your way. By anticipating both common and challenging questions, you can respond confidently and keep the conversation focused on your key messages. Here’s how to effectively prepare:
Prepare for Common Questions Related to Your Topic
Action Steps:
List Likely Questions: Start by thinking about the most common questions you’re likely to be asked during the podcast. These might include questions about your business, industry trends, your products or services, or your personal journey as an entrepreneur. If you’ve listened to previous episodes of the podcast, consider the types of questions the host typically asks guests.
Write Out Clear Responses: For each question on your list, write down a brief, clear response that ties back to your core talking points. Make sure your answers are concise and easy to understand, avoiding any jargon or overly technical language that might confuse the audience.
Highlight Your Key Messages: Ensure that each response reinforces one of your key messages. For example, if a common question is “What inspired you to start your business?”, your answer should not only tell your story but also subtly highlight the unique value your business offers.
Practice Your Answers Aloud: Practise answering these common questions out loud. This will help you become comfortable with your responses and ensure you can deliver them smoothly during the interview.
Why This Matters: Preparing for common questions allows you to confidently communicate your key messages, ensuring that the conversation remains focused and impactful.
Develop Responses to Potentially Challenging Questions
Action Steps:
Identify Possible Challenging Questions: Consider the more difficult or unexpected questions that might come up. These could be questions about industry controversies, customer complaints, business challenges, or competitive pressures. Think about areas where you might feel less comfortable or confident.
Plan Your Responses Carefully: For each challenging question, craft a thoughtful and composed response. Aim to address the issue honestly while steering the conversation back towards a positive point or your key messages. For example, if asked about a business setback, you could acknowledge the challenge and then explain what you learned from the experience and how it made your business stronger.
Stay Calm and Composed: Practise responding to these challenging questions while remaining calm and composed. Focus on maintaining a positive tone and avoid getting defensive or side-tracked. If necessary, practise with a colleague or friend who can ask you these questions in a mock interview setting.
Prepare to Pivot: Sometimes, a challenging question might take the conversation in an unexpected direction. Be prepared to pivot back to your core messages by linking your response to your key points. For example, if asked about a difficult period in your business, you could segue into discussing how that experience shaped your current success.
Why This Matters: By anticipating and preparing for challenging questions, you can navigate difficult topics with confidence and ensure the conversation remains productive and aligned with your goals.
By anticipating both common and challenging questions, you will be well-prepared to handle the interview with confidence. This preparation ensures that you stay on message, even when faced with unexpected challenges, and helps to make your podcast appearance as impactful as possible.
Step 7: Organising Your Talking Points
Organising your talking points is crucial for delivering a clear and focused message during your podcast appearance. By creating a brief outline and familiarising yourself with your key points, you’ll be able to communicate effectively while remaining adaptable during the conversation. Here’s how to get organised:
Create a Brief Outline of Your Key Points
Action Steps:
Identify Your Core Messages: Start by revisiting the key points you want to communicate during the podcast. These should align with your objectives and resonate with the podcast’s audience. Aim for 3-5 core messages that you can focus on throughout the interview.
Structure Your Points Logically: Organise your talking points in a logical order that follows the flow of a typical conversation. For example, you might start with an introduction to your business, followed by discussing your unique value proposition, sharing a success story, and concluding with a call to action.
Keep It Concise: Your outline should be brief and easy to reference. Use bullet points or short phrases to capture each key idea. This will make it easier to recall your points during the interview without getting bogged down in too much detail.
Include Supporting Examples: Under each key point, jot down any relevant stories, examples, or statistics that you can use to illustrate your message. This helps reinforce your points and makes them more memorable for the audience.
Review and Refine: Go over your outline to ensure it’s clear, focused, and well-organised. Remove any points that aren’t essential to your message or that might distract from your main objectives.
Why This Matters: A well-organised outline keeps you on track during the interview, ensuring that you cover all your key points while maintaining a logical flow to the conversation.
Memorise Essential Points While Staying Flexible
Action Steps:
Familiarise Yourself with the Outline: Spend time reviewing your outline until you’re comfortable with the order and content of your key points. You don’t need to memorise it word-for-word, but you should be familiar enough with it to speak confidently on each topic.
Focus on Core Messages: Concentrate on memorising the core messages and the main examples or stories that support them. This ensures that even if the conversation takes an unexpected turn, you can always steer it back to your main points.
Practise Speaking Naturally: Practise discussing your key points out loud without looking at your outline. This will help you to speak more naturally and engage in a conversational manner during the podcast, rather than sounding rehearsed or scripted.
Stay Flexible: Be prepared to adapt your talking points based on the direction of the conversation. If the host asks a question that isn’t directly related to your outline, don’t panic. Use your knowledge of your key points to respond naturally, and then gently guide the conversation back to your core messages.
Use Cues if Necessary: If you’re worried about forgetting something important, keep a small cue card or your outline nearby during the interview. Glance at it if needed, but avoid reading directly from it to keep the conversation flowing naturally.
Why This Matters: Memorising your essential points while staying flexible allows you to confidently deliver your message, even if the conversation takes an unexpected direction. This balance ensures that you remain engaging and responsive throughout the interview.
By organising your talking points and becoming familiar with your key messages, you’ll be well-prepared to deliver a polished and effective podcast appearance. This preparation will help you stay focused, communicate clearly, and make a lasting impact on the audience.
Step 8: Technical Preparation
Technical preparation is a vital part of ensuring your podcast appearance goes smoothly. By taking the time to test your equipment, create a suitable environment, and prepare for potential issues, you can avoid disruptions and focus on delivering your message effectively. Here’s how to prepare:
Test Your Audio Equipment and Internet Connection
Action Steps:
Check Your Microphone: Use a quality microphone for the podcast. Built-in laptop or phone microphones are often inadequate. If you don’t have an external microphone, consider borrowing or investing in one. Before the interview, test your microphone to ensure it’s working correctly. Make sure the sound is clear and free of any background noise or static.
Test Your Headphones: If you’re using headphones, test them as well to ensure you can hear the host clearly. Headphones also help prevent audio feedback, which can be distracting during the recording.
Run an Internet Speed Test: A stable internet connection is crucial for a smooth podcast recording, especially if the interview is being conducted live or over video. Use an online speed test to check your internet speed. As of 2024, the average internet speed in the UK is 73Mbps. Realistically, considering that you may have other devices connected to your internet connection, the minimum internet speed you should aim for is around 20Mbps.
Close Unnecessary Applications: Before the interview, close any applications or browser tabs on your computer that could slow down your internet connection or cause distractions.
Conduct a Trial Run: If possible, arrange a short trial run with a friend or colleague to test all your equipment in real-time. This will help you identify any issues and adjust settings before the actual interview.
Why This Matters: Properly testing your audio equipment and internet connection ensures clear communication during the podcast, preventing technical issues that could disrupt the conversation and distract from your message.
Ensure a Quiet and Distraction-Free Environment
Action Steps:
Choose a Quiet Location: Select a room where you won’t be disturbed during the interview. Inform anyone who shares the space with you about the recording time so they can avoid making noise.
Minimise Background Noise: Close windows and doors to block out external noise. Turn off any fans, air conditioners, or other devices that might create background noise. If possible, choose a room with carpeting or soft furnishings, as these can help absorb sound and reduce echo.
Check Your Lighting (if on video): If the podcast includes a video component, ensure the room is well-lit. Natural light is ideal, but if that’s not possible, position a lamp in front of you rather than behind you to avoid being backlit.
Eliminate Distractions: Turn off notifications on your phone and computer to prevent interruptions. Place a “Do Not Disturb” sign on your door if necessary, and make sure pets or children won’t unexpectedly enter the room.
Why This Matters: Creating a quiet and distraction-free environment helps you stay focused during the interview and ensures that the recording is of high quality, making for a more professional and polished appearance.
Have a Backup Plan for Potential Technical Issues
Action Steps:
Prepare a Backup Device: If possible, have a secondary device, such as a smartphone or tablet, ready to use in case your primary device fails. Ensure it has the necessary software installed and tested beforehand.
Keep Contact Information Handy: Have the podcast host’s contact information readily available in case you experience technical difficulties. This way, you can quickly communicate with them if something goes wrong.
Plan for Power Interruptions: Make sure your device is fully charged before the interview, and keep it plugged in during the session to avoid running out of battery. If you live in an area prone to power cuts, consider having a portable power bank on hand.
Test an Alternative Internet Connection: If your primary internet connection is unstable, identify a backup, such as a mobile hotspot or another Wi-Fi network. Test this connection in advance to ensure it’s reliable.
Stay Calm and Flexible: If a technical issue arises during the interview, stay calm. Let the host know about the issue, and switch to your backup plan as quickly as possible. Most hosts will understand and appreciate your preparation.
Why This Matters: Having a backup plan in place ensures that technical issues don’t derail your podcast appearance. Being prepared for the unexpected allows you to remain composed and continue delivering your message effectively.
By following these steps for technical preparation, you can ensure that your podcast interview goes off without a hitch. This attention to detail will help you present yourself and your business in the best possible light, contributing to a successful and impactful podcast appearance.
Step 9: Practising Your Delivery
Practising your delivery is a crucial step in ensuring that your podcast appearance is confident, clear, and engaging. By rehearsing out loud and reviewing a practice session, you can refine your presentation and make any necessary adjustments before the actual interview. Here’s how to do it:
Rehearse Out Loud to Refine Your Delivery
Action Steps:
Review Your Outline: Begin by familiarising yourself with the outline of your key talking points. Once you feel comfortable with the content, start practising your delivery out loud. This helps you become more familiar with the flow of your conversation and ensures you can speak naturally and confidently.
Focus on Clarity and Pace: As you rehearse, pay attention to the clarity of your speech and the pace at which you talk. Aim to speak clearly, avoiding mumbling or rushing through your points. Practice pacing yourself so that you don’t speak too quickly or too slowly, allowing your audience to follow along easily.
Incorporate Natural Pauses: Use natural pauses to emphasise important points and give the host or audience a moment to absorb what you’ve said. Pausing can also help you collect your thoughts and ensure that your delivery remains calm and measured.
Practise Transitions: Ensure that you practise the transitions between your talking points. Smooth transitions help maintain the flow of the conversation and make your delivery sound more professional. If you’re moving from one topic to another, find a natural way to link the two points.
Seek Feedback: If possible, practise in front of a friend, colleague, or mentor who can give you constructive feedback. They can point out any areas where you might need to slow down, clarify your points, or adjust your tone.
Why This Matters: Rehearsing out loud helps you refine your delivery, ensuring that you communicate your message clearly and effectively. This practice builds your confidence and makes your podcast appearance more engaging and professional.
Record a Practice Session to Identify Areas for Improvement
Action Steps:
Set Up a Recording Device: Use your phone, computer, or any recording device to record yourself as you practise your delivery. Ensure that the recording environment is similar to what you’ll have during the actual interview, including the use of your microphone and any other equipment.
Conduct a Full Practice Session: Record a full run-through of your podcast talking points, as if you were in the actual interview. This includes practising your introduction, key points, stories, and closing remarks. Treat this session as if it were the real thing.
Review the Recording: After completing your practice session, listen to the recording critically. Pay attention to your tone, pacing, and clarity. Note any areas where you might have stumbled, rushed, or been unclear. Identify sections where you could improve your delivery or refine your message.
Make Adjustments: Based on your review, make any necessary adjustments to your delivery. If you noticed that you spoke too quickly, practise slowing down. If a particular point was unclear, revise how you present it. Re-record sections if needed to see if the changes improve your delivery.
Practise Again if Necessary: If you identified significant areas for improvement, practise again, incorporating the adjustments you’ve made. Repeating the process will help solidify your delivery and ensure that you’re fully prepared for the interview.
Why This Matters: Recording and reviewing your practice session allows you to identify and correct any issues before the actual interview. This process helps you refine your delivery, ensuring that you come across as polished and confident, which is key to making a strong impression on the audience.
By practising your delivery and refining it through rehearsal and recording, you can ensure that your podcast appearance is engaging, professional, and impactful. This preparation will help you communicate your message clearly, leaving a lasting positive impression on both the host and the audience.
Step 10: Preparing Your Promotional Materials
Preparing your promotional materials is an essential part of podcast guest preparation. By providing the host with a concise bio and any additional materials they may need, you ensure that you are presented in the best possible light and make it easy for the host to promote your appearance. Here’s how to get your promotional materials ready:
Finalise a Short Bio to Share with the Host
Action Steps:
Keep It Concise: Write a short bio that is no more than 3-4 sentences long. This should be a brief overview of who you are, what your business does, and what makes you an expert in your field. Focus on the most relevant information that aligns with the podcast’s theme and audience.
Highlight Your Unique Selling Points: Include key details that set you apart from others in your industry. This could be an award you’ve won, a major achievement, or a unique aspect of your business. Make sure these points reinforce your authority and credibility.
Tailor the Bio to the Podcast Audience: Consider the interests and needs of the podcast’s audience when writing your bio. If the podcast targets small business owners, for example, emphasise your experience in growing a successful small business. If the audience is more general, focus on your broader achievements and expertise.
Include a Call to Action: If appropriate, include a subtle call to action in your bio. This could be an invitation to visit your website, sign up for a newsletter, or follow you on social media. Make sure it feels natural and doesn’t come across as overly promotional.
Review for Clarity and Impact: Before sending your bio to the host, review it for clarity and impact. Ensure that it’s free of jargon and easy to understand, while still conveying your expertise and the value you bring to the podcast.
Why This Matters: A well-crafted bio provides the host with a clear and compelling introduction to who you are, helping to set the stage for a successful podcast appearance. It also makes it easier for the host to promote your episode effectively.
Prepare Any Additional Materials the Host May Need
Action Steps:
Ask the Host What They Need: Reach out to the host or the podcast team to ask if there are any specific materials they need from you. This could include high-resolution photos, logos, or links to your website or social media profiles. Providing these in advance ensures that the host has everything they need to promote your episode effectively.
Provide High-Quality Images: If the host requests a photo, make sure you provide a high-quality, professional image. This could be a headshot or an action shot that reflects your personality and brand. Ensure the image is well-lit, in focus, and represents you or your business in the best light.
Share Relevant Links: Include links to your website, social media profiles, and any relevant articles, interviews, or resources that could be mentioned during the podcast. Providing these links in advance allows the host to reference them during the episode and include them in the show notes.
Create a One-Pager (Optional): If appropriate, consider creating a one-page summary that includes your bio, key talking points, and contact information. This can be a helpful reference for the host during the interview and can also be shared with the audience in the show notes.
Send Materials in a Timely Manner: Once you’ve prepared your promotional materials, send them to the host well in advance of the recording date. This gives the host plenty of time to review and incorporate them into their promotion plan.
Why This Matters: Providing the host with all the necessary materials in advance ensures that your episode is promoted effectively and that you’re presented in the best possible light. It also makes the host’s job easier, which can lead to a more positive and collaborative experience.
By preparing your promotional materials carefully, you help to maximise the impact of your podcast appearance. This preparation not only enhances your credibility but also ensures that your episode reaches as wide an audience as possible, contributing to the growth of your business.
Step 11: Confirming the Details
Confirming the details of your podcast appearance is a crucial final step in your preparation. Ensuring that all the logistics are in order will help you avoid any last-minute surprises and allow you to focus fully on delivering a great interview. Here’s how to make sure everything is set:
Double-Check the Interview Time and Format
Action Steps:
Verify the Time Zone: If the podcast host is in a different time zone, double-check the interview time to ensure there’s no confusion. Convert the scheduled time to your local time zone and add a reminder to your calendar. It’s always a good idea to confirm the time with the host a day or two before the interview.
Confirm the Interview Format: Clarify the format of the interview with the host. Will it be live or pre-recorded? Is it audio-only, or will video be involved? Understanding the format helps you prepare appropriately, whether that means setting up your video equipment or ensuring your surroundings are ready for a live broadcast.
Check the Duration: Confirm how long the interview is expected to last. This allows you to pace your talking points accordingly and ensures you’re not caught off guard if the interview runs longer or shorter than you anticipated.
Ask About the Structure: If the host hasn’t already provided this information, ask about the general structure of the interview. Knowing whether it will be a straightforward Q&A, a conversational style, or include specific segments (like quick-fire questions) will help you prepare your responses and delivery.
Why This Matters: Confirming the time, format, and structure of the interview ensures that you’re fully prepared and avoids any potential misunderstandings that could disrupt the flow of the conversation.
Review Any Specific Instructions or Guidelines from the Host
Action Steps:
Read Through Any Pre-Interview Materials: If the host has sent you any instructions or guidelines, take the time to review them carefully. These might include technical requirements, topics to avoid, or specific points they’d like you to cover. Understanding these guidelines will help you meet the host’s expectations and ensure a smooth interview.
Clarify Any Uncertainties: If there’s anything in the instructions that you’re unsure about, don’t hesitate to ask the host for clarification. It’s better to ask questions beforehand than to be unsure during the interview.
Check for Promotional Requirements: Some podcasts may have specific guidelines regarding promotion, such as sharing the episode on your social media channels or mentioning the podcast in your communications. Make a note of these requirements and ensure you’re prepared to follow through after the interview.
Prepare Any Last-Minute Materials: If the host has requested any additional materials, such as a link to a particular resource or a specific question they’d like you to answer, make sure these are ready and at hand before the interview.
Reconfirm Contact Details: Ensure you have the correct contact details for the host or the podcast team in case you need to get in touch just before the interview. This is particularly important if you experience any last-minute technical issues or delays.
Why This Matters: Reviewing and following any specific instructions from the host ensures that you meet their expectations and contribute to a well-organised and professional interview. This preparation helps to build a positive relationship with the host, which could lead to future opportunities.
By confirming the details of your podcast appearance, you can step into the interview with confidence, knowing that all the logistics have been taken care of. This final step of preparation helps to ensure a seamless and successful podcast experience, allowing you to focus on delivering your message and growing your business.
Step 12: Mental and Physical Preparation
Ensuring you’re mentally and physically prepared for your podcast appearance is just as important as the technical and content preparation. Being relaxed and focused will help you deliver your message confidently and clearly. Here’s how to get yourself ready:
Take Time to Relax and Focus Before the Interview
Action Steps:
Set Aside Quiet Time: Before the interview, allocate at least 15-30 minutes of quiet time to gather your thoughts and focus. Use this time to review your key talking points, but avoid cramming or over-preparing. The goal is to centre yourself and enter the interview feeling calm and collected.
Practice Deep Breathing: Engage in a few minutes of deep breathing exercises to help calm any nerves. Inhale slowly through your nose, hold for a few seconds, and then exhale slowly through your mouth. This can help reduce anxiety and improve your focus.
Visualise Success: Spend a few moments visualising a successful interview. Picture yourself speaking clearly, engaging with the host, and making a strong impression on the audience. This positive visualisation can boost your confidence and help set a constructive tone for the interview.
Avoid Last-Minute Stress: Try to complete all your preparations, including setting up your equipment and reviewing your notes, well before the interview time. This will give you a chance to unwind and enter the conversation with a clear mind.
Stay Positive: Remind yourself of the value you bring to the conversation. Focus on the opportunity to share your expertise and connect with a new audience, rather than worrying about potential mistakes.
Why This Matters: Taking time to relax and focus before the interview helps you to approach the conversation with a calm and confident mindset, which can significantly improve your delivery and overall performance.
Have Water Nearby and Ensure You’re Comfortable
Action Steps:
Prepare a Glass of Water: Keep a glass of water within reach during the interview. Sipping water can help keep your throat clear and prevent dryness, ensuring that your voice remains strong and steady throughout the conversation.
Check Your Seating: Make sure you’re seated comfortably before the interview begins. Choose a chair that supports good posture, as sitting up straight can help you breathe better and speak more clearly. Avoid sitting in a position that might cause discomfort or strain over time.
Adjust Your Environment: Ensure your environment is set up for comfort. This includes adjusting the temperature of the room, eliminating any potential distractions, and making sure your equipment is within easy reach. Being physically comfortable will allow you to focus entirely on the conversation.
Dress Appropriately: Even if the podcast is audio-only, dressing appropriately can help put you in the right mindset. Wear something that makes you feel confident and professional. If the interview includes video, make sure your outfit is suitable for the camera.
Take a Final Moment to Relax: Just before the interview begins, take a deep breath, relax your shoulders, and remind yourself that you’re prepared. A few seconds of relaxation can make a big difference in how you start the conversation.
Why This Matters: Ensuring you’re physically comfortable and well-prepared helps you stay focused on the interview itself, allowing you to communicate more effectively and make a positive impression on the audience.
By taking these steps to prepare mentally and physically, you can ensure that you’re in the best possible state to deliver a successful podcast appearance. This final preparation step helps to enhance your confidence, clarity, and overall performance, contributing to a strong and impactful interview that supports your business goals.
Step 13: Reviewing Your Strategy
Before stepping into your podcast interview, it’s essential to review your strategy one last time. This final step ensures that you are clear on your goals, confident in your talking points, and mentally prepared for the conversation. Here’s how to make sure you’re fully ready:
Go Over Your Goals and Key Points One Last Time
Action Steps:
Revisit Your Objectives: Take a few minutes to review the goals you set for this podcast appearance. Remind yourself of what you want to achieve, whether it’s raising brand awareness, generating leads, or establishing your expertise. Keeping these goals at the forefront of your mind will help guide your responses during the interview.
Review Your Key Points: Go over the core talking points you’ve prepared. These should align with your objectives and be designed to resonate with the podcast’s audience. Make sure you feel comfortable with how you will introduce and discuss each point.
Check for Consistency: Ensure that your key points are consistent with the overall message you want to convey. This includes how you’ll introduce yourself, the stories you’ll share, and the actionable takeaways you’ll provide. Consistency in your message will help reinforce your brand and make your appearance more memorable.
Practice One Last Time (if necessary): If you feel uncertain about any part of your strategy, take a moment to practise those points again. A quick rehearsal can help solidify your confidence and ensure a smooth delivery during the actual interview.
Why This Matters: Reviewing your goals and key points just before the interview helps you stay focused and ensures that your message is clear and aligned with your business objectives.
Visualise the Interview Flow and Your Ideal Outcome
Action Steps:
Imagine the Interview Flow: Spend a few minutes visualising how the interview might unfold. Picture the host asking questions, and imagine yourself responding confidently and clearly. Consider the natural progression of the conversation and how you’ll transition between your key points.
Anticipate Potential Questions: Visualise how you might handle different types of questions, both common and challenging. Think about how you’ll steer the conversation back to your core messages if needed and how you’ll maintain a positive and engaging tone throughout.
Envision a Successful Outcome: Picture what a successful interview looks like for you. This might include effectively communicating your message, connecting with the audience, or receiving positive feedback from the host. Visualising success can help boost your confidence and set a positive tone for the interview.
Prepare for the Unexpected: While visualising the ideal flow, also consider how you’ll handle unexpected situations. Whether it’s a technical glitch or an off-topic question, imagine yourself staying calm and adaptable, guiding the conversation back to your goals.
Focus on Your Call to Action: If you have a specific call to action (such as inviting listeners to visit your website or download a resource), visualise how you’ll introduce this at the appropriate time. Make sure it feels natural and aligns with the flow of the conversation.
Why This Matters: Visualising the interview and its ideal outcome helps you mentally prepare for the conversation. This preparation allows you to enter the interview with a clear plan and a positive mindset, increasing the likelihood of a successful and impactful appearance.
By reviewing your strategy and visualising the interview flow, you ensure that you are mentally and strategically prepared for your podcast appearance. This final step of preparation enables you to deliver your message with confidence and clarity, helping you to achieve your goals and make a strong impression on the audience.
Your Podcast Guest Preparation Conclusion
Congratulations on reaching the end of your podcast guest preparation! By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ve set yourself up for a successful and impactful podcast appearance. Let’s quickly recap the key points to ensure you’re fully prepared:
Understand the Host and Audience: Start by researching the podcast host’s objectives and the audience’s needs. Align your message with these to create a relevant and engaging conversation.
Clarify Your Objectives: Clearly define what you want to achieve from the podcast appearance. Identify the key takeaways you want the audience to remember, and craft your message around these goals.
Prepare and Refine Your Message: Develop your core talking points, select engaging stories, and practice delivering them confidently. Make sure your message is clear, concise, and tailored to the podcast’s audience.
Get Technically Ready: Test your audio equipment, ensure a quiet environment, and have a backup plan for any technical issues. Being technically prepared will help you focus on delivering your message without distractions.
Confirm All Details: Double-check the interview time, format, and any specific instructions from the host. Confirming these details will prevent any last-minute surprises and help the interview run smoothly.
Mentally and Physically Prepare: Take time to relax and focus before the interview. Ensure you’re comfortable, and have water nearby to keep your voice clear.
Review Your Strategy: Go over your goals and key points one last time. Visualise a successful interview and how you’ll handle the flow of the conversation.
By thoroughly preparing, you increase your chances of making a lasting impression on the audience, which can help grow your business and attract new customers. Remember, every podcast appearance is an opportunity to share your expertise, build your brand, and connect with potential customers.
With your preparation complete, you’re now ready to step into the podcast spotlight with confidence. Best of luck with your interview—your message is ready to be heard!