Introduction:

Picture this: You're about to be on a podcast guest appearance. Your heart is racing, and you're not quite sure where to begin. But remember, podcasting is a dynamic platform where your voice can inspire, educate, and influence. Being a confident and effective speaker in this realm is key, and it's not just for celebrities. Whether you're a professional, entrepreneur, or activist, mastering the art of public speaking for podcast guest appearances can open doors and amplify your message. In this blog post, I share tips for you to be confident and have impactful interviews as podcast guest.

How to Prepare:

1. Ask the Host What Their Goal is.  Find out from the host what they want to achieve with the podcast. This will help you to be aligned with them and help to create synergy.
2. Listen to Past Episodes. Do your homework about the podcast by listening to some past episodes. This will give you an idea about the host and the audience, the length of the podcast, the style of the interview, and possibly more.  
3. Know Your Audience. Before you utter your first word on the podcast, research your audience so you can understand them. Ask the host who the listeners are and learn as much as you can about them. Look at the podcast website to see what you can learn. Then tailor your message to their interests and needs to help your interview resonate.
4. Provide a Bio & Photo. The podcast host will need a photo and bio of you to promote the podcast. Offering it before you are asked will most likely be greatly appreciated by the host.
5. Suggest Topics & Questions. The host may be equally appreciative if you offer a couple of topics and a few questions. This helps them have less work to prepare. It also provides you with the opportunity to have more control on what will be covered and can help you become known for your expertise. Sometimes there are no questions and the podcast is more free form but you will know this when you have listened to a couple of the episodes.
6. Craft a Clear Message. Once you’ve done your homework on the podcasts, the host’s goals, and the audience, you’re ready to craft the points you will cover in a concise and compelling way. Your message should not only captivate but also inspire action to either contact you for a free resource or sign up for your offer. Think about popular podcasts where guests masterfully conveyed their message and a call to action, leaving a lasting impact. 
7. Storytelling Techniques. Storytelling is the secret sauce of engaging podcasting. Learn the art of sharing brief, impactful anecdotes. Take a page from the book of famous storytellers who wielded the power of storytelling to move their audiences. 
8. Rehearse Your Delivery. Malcolm Gladwell's words resonate here: "Practice isn't the thing you do once you're good. It's the thing you do that makes you good." Practice is your ally. It builds confidence and sharpens your speaking skills. For a podcast interview, you may want to practice with a buddy.

Handling Nervousness:

We all feel those pre-podcast jitters. Combat nervousness with tried-and-true techniques like deep breathing exercises. Also, remember my free training, Overcome Your Fear of Public Speaking. It's a valuable resource.

Engaging Your Audience:

1. Active Listening. If and when listeners call in, seek to understand their question. If allowed, ask them why they are asking the question to be able to gain some context. Otherwise, your listening will revolve around what the host is saying. It's not just about speaking but also understanding. One of my favorite quotes is from Stephen R. Covey when he said, "Seek first to understand, then to be understood." This may be the most powerful advice for effective communication.
2. Interaction and Feedback. Be an active guest. Engage and be authentic with the podcast host and their audience. Share personal anecdotes, provide insights, and ask questions. Effective guest interactions are the hallmark of a memorable podcast episode.

Post-Appearance Follow-Up:

1. Thank You Email or Note. After your podcast appearance, show gratitude by sending a personalized thank-you email or note to the podcast host. This simple act goes a long way in building lasting relationships.
2. Promoting Your Episode. The podcast journey doesn't end with the recording. Promote your episode on social media and through your email list. Don't underestimate the power of word-of-mouth marketing; encourage your network to share your podcast as well.

Conclusion:

To excel as a podcast guest, your public speaking skills can be a terrific asset. Remember the key takeaways: preparation, clear messaging, practice, engagement, and follow-up. Start honing these skills today and become a podcasting guest pro.

As you embark on this journey, keep in mind that confidence and impact go hand in hand. "Podcasting is a great way to share your ideas and knowledge with the world.” – John Lee Dumas

Now, it's your turn! Share your thoughts, experiences, or questions related to podcast guest appearances in the comments below. Let's continue the conversation.