I have used several strategies to find podcast guests for my 500-some episodes.
Certainly not all podcast guests are created equal. But many people have stories worth sharing. Some have a bigger following that can drive cross-promotion, while others have a unique story that helps the podcast.
So these are my top tips for finding podcasts guests that make your show better:
- Who do you know already
- Connect to people in your topical areas
- Podcast booking networks
- Help a Reporter Out-type sites
- Post on social media that you are looking for guests
- Ask guests for recommendations
- Advertise as an opening
- Speakers from industry conferences
- PR pitches
And then, I briefly discuss what strategy to find podcast guest is best. Let’s dive into each of these further.
Existing connections
All of us have existing relationships and connections. Some of those would make good podcast guests, and we should consider inviting them.
Especially in early episodes of a new podcast, this can make the process easier. You’re already comfortable with each other and know each other.
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Connecting with thought leaders and others in your industry
Every industry has people that talk about it on social media. Connect with those people, follow them, and engage with their content.
When they say something that might interest your audience, consider inviting them to the show to talk about that specific topic.
Read next: 436: How to build your thought leadership program
This is probably my favorite way to find guests. I see that somebody said something exciting, and then I invite them on.
Podcast booking networks
Sites like Podbooker connect guests to hosts. You can create an account, search their database of guests and invite them. Guests can also reach out to you as the host and ask to be considered.
Many of these sites also have mailing lists that feature shows looking for guests. I’ve done this a couple of times and received hundreds of responses. Some weren’t a fit, but there were also some guests I invited.
HARO-type sites
Sites like HARO (Help a Reporter Out) allow you to send our requests to the site’s community for quotes and even offer podcast slots. One marketing podcast is an entry on the lists of asks on the HARO email for comments daily.
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LinkedIn and social media posts
Consider posting on your social media accounts that you are looking for guests. You can also consider asking your network for recommendations. “Who do you want me to interview next on my podcast? Tag them in the comments.”
Ask guests for recommendations
Once you are done talking with current guests, ask them if they have any recommendations for other guests. Who do they like, and who has a great story to share?
Sometimes, it can be hard to come up with a name on the top of your head, but you can also mention that they could message later if somebody comes to mind.
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Advertise as an opening
I did see a LinkedIn job opening for a podcast guest. I’m not sure that people looking for jobs are interested in being podcast guests, but maybe they are. If nothing else, it’s a unique way to attempt to find guests.
Speakers from industry conferences
Sometimes I attend industry conferences, and sometimes I just follow their hashtag on social media. Either way, they are a gold mine to find podcast guests. Typically, they’re established in the industry or up and comers, and they have a story to tell.
PR pitches
Once your podcast gets going and sees some traction, people will reach out to you to appear as guests on your show. No doubt.
What strategy for finding podcast guests is best?
The best strategy depends on your preferences, podcast schedule, and budget. For example, some efforts cost money, so we need to consider if it’s worth it. It also depends on the type of podcast you have. For example, a branded podcast might prioritize prospects.
Reaching out to people you know or are following on social media is free but does take time.
And the other thing to keep in mind: Once your podcast has some traction, people will likely reach out to you to be a guest on your show.
