Podcasts are the new public speaking stages. Giving a presentation on a podcast can increase your visibility, build your brand, and improve your skills. Today’s presenters must be media savvy and podcasts are a great platform for getting your message out. However, you can’t just show up and talk.
A podcast is a production and requires good presentation skills. Unlike being on a live stage, a podcast is recorded and distributed so you want to showcase yourself in the best light. Here are a few tips for presenting on podcasts:
1. Know the demographics-Not all podcasts are a fit. If your expertise is health and wellness you probably don’t want to guest on a financial show. Ask the host about the size and type of audience and listen to a few podcasts to get a sense of the interviewer’s style. Is it live streamed or recorded? What is the platform? Is there audience participation? How long is the broadcast? Is it video or audio?
2. Prepare message points-You may be an expert in your field, but don’t show up to have a chat. Know your key messages so you can lead with them. There is a reason you’re a guest. What is it you want the audience to know and learn? How do you want to position yourself? Be sure to give the host a brief introduction and agree on an approach to the conversation.
3. Tell stories-Stories sell. They make the conversation interesting and engaging. The audience wants to know your personal story. Let them know where you came from. Share your struggles as well as your successes. People will remember your points when they are wrapped in a story. A little vulnerability goes a long way to humanize the speaker. They should be able to see themselves in your experiences.
4. Use humor-Nothing breaks the ice better than humor. If you can start out with something humorous, the audience will stay tuned. You don’t have to be a comedian but some lighthearted banter back-and-forth can go a long way to engaging and entertaining the audience.
5. Have a conversation-Nobody wants to listen to a talking head. Talk directly to the host and exchange ideas. Make it an interesting exchange instead of spouting a lot of facts.
6. Look directly at the lens-If it’s a video podcast, look at the lens in order to make eye contact with the audience. It may seem counter intuitive, but it will look like you’re making an eye connection with the listeners.
7. Get excited! Don’t forget that a podcast interview is a performance. Push your energy. A monotone voice will cause the listeners to tune out. Enthusiasm is contagious.
If the thought of speaking on large stages makes you nervous, don’t worry. Podcasts are a popular way to get your message across in a less intimidating venue. Remember these 7 steps and commit to giving a Knockout podcast.
To learn how to Speak Confidently and Effectively check out my LinkedIn learning course. It ranked #5 on the Top 20 Most Popular courses.
To learn techniques to overcome fear of speaking, read chapter 3 of Knockout Presentations.
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