What are common mistakes when reaching out to podcast guests?

Many hosts do not allow their guests to feel comfortable. For me, a relaxed atmosphere from the start makes a great interview. Interviews with set questions is something I don't agree with. I would rather have an easy flow through the conversation, like a coffee-chat.

For me, the biggest mistake I have made is underestimating the value of my show to the guest. inviting someone on your show is a win/win - you get content and the guest gets coverage, no matter how small your reach might be. So don't think the guest is doing you a favor in agreeing to come on your show! know your worth, and let that confidence show up in your pitch to them.

Make sure to emphasize what makes that person special and why you want to hear their specific POV on a specific topic. For example, if your podcast is about Sales Development in the B2B tech space, you wouldn't want to just invite any and every salesperson to speak on the podcast. In that instance, you'd want to make sure that you're reaching out to people who are successfully developing sales teams at B2B tech companies, not a used car salesperson. It's just as important to make sure your show is relevant to them as it is to make sure they are relevant to your show.

Using unprofessional or casual language in your initial outreach can also give a bad impression. Maintain a professional tone and use proper etiquette.

Sending the questions to your guest beforehand in order for them to avoid going into the conversation blind. Once the conversation gets going, it can go in many different directions, but having a list of questions as a guideline can ensure for a more fluid conversation.

In addition, not just focusing solely on what the podcast can gain from the guest. Avoid neglecting to highlight the benefits for the guest. Promote their books, their websites, their businesses, etc. When you fail to promote the guest, it could potentially deter future guests from wanting to join the podcast.

If you want your guest to share their podcast episode, you need to make sure to arm them with all the promotional 'ammo' that you can. Make sure they can easily access video clips, quote cards, static graphics, audiograms, transcripts, etc. It's also a best practice to kick off the promotion of the guest's podcast episode yourself. As the host, you should be the first one to share clips and links to the episode on social media the day the episode goes live. When the host first post about the podcast, it's almost like they are lighting the fuse of the promotional powder keg!

Poor Timing A seventh would be failing to consider the guest's availability and schedule can lead to missed opportunities. Make sure to propose reasonable dates and times for the interview. The more available you can be, the better chance of landing more guests.