What to include in your pitch to podcasts
Last time we delved into the benefits of being featured on podcasts and the difference in how that benefits you to, say, pitching to a magazine.
Well, now I’m going to share how to do it! Or rather, what you need to include to make a really strong podcast pitch.
Let’s get into it.
You need a clear hook or message
This is really similar to pitching to journalists - you need a topic to talk about that’s going to appeal to that podcast host’s audience - it’s no good just writing an email and pitching yourself as a guest without it. Whether it’s sharing failures, tips, or your expertise in a more general way, there needs to be a thread of conversation you could easily discuss with the podcast host for at least half an hour. It’ll increase your chances of getting a yes if they can imagine how the episode might play out.
You need to craft that message in line with the podcast format
Again, the same level of tailoring needs applying to podcast pitches as it does media pitches. After all, it’s a waste of your own time if you’re pitching something that doesn’t align with the way a show is typically planned out.
Offer some talking points or questions
If you’re wondering, ‘er…okay… what do I say then?!’ don’t worry! I’ve got you! A great way to give your pitch structure is to offer a few bullet points of areas your podcast conversation could cover, as well as questions they may find useful to ask you on that topic. Obviously you don’t want to come across as if you’re trying to dictate the way the conversation should go, but giving helpful suggestions is something they will definitely appreciate.
Refer to past guests and episodes
In your pitch, you should refer to past guests or episodes that you think your idea is similar to so the host can mentally envision where you might sit within the fabric of the episodes they already have. Make sure to do your research, though, so you don’t pitch an idea that they’ve already covered.
Point them to examples of your thought leadership
Even if you’ve not been on a podcast before, you should point them in the direction of anywhere they can get a feel for your thought leadership, whether that’s a blog, other press you’ve received, your professional social media pages or work that you’ve done. This will exemplify to them that you can confidently talk about your field in an interesting, engaging way.
Make it clear why you’re passionate about the topic and what it will offer to their audience
There’s something that definitely can’t be faked on a podcast and that’s passion. Podcast hosts want guests who are going to be energetic and captivating so that their audience won’t switch off half way through. Inject warmth and charisma into your pitch and you’ll be giving the host a flavour of what they might get if they invite you to be a guest.
