Interviews To Generate Traffic

Internet Talk Radio shows and podcasts are popping up all over the web. And, guess what? Every show needs guests on a regular basis. Some of the shows are weekly, which means the hosts are scrambling for interesting people to interview each week. Why not pitch an idea to an Internet Talk Radio show and share your expertise with a new group of potential customers?

Not only do Talk Radio or podcast interviews get you exposure in front of a lot of people via the actual interview, but, many hosts will link to your website from the front page of their site, blog about the show, and send out a newsletter talking about you. Your interview may also be archived for months to come. It’s a pretty sweet deal.

So how do you actually get asked on to a show?

Most Talk Radio shows have a link on their front page that says “Be a Guest”. If you click on that link, you can contact the host or producer with your idea. Some radio shows charge their guests, but most do not if you bring something valuable to their audience. There are plenty of great shows on the web, so you can afford to be picky.

To increase your odds:

1. Actually listen to the show a few times before even thinking of contacting the host as a potential guest – and make sure your concept fits into the target market that the show reaches. If the show is about Health and Fitness, there’s no point trying to pitch your Cake Decorating Book on there.

2. Do something newsworthy or interesting. Are you having a special event for charity? Have you recently won an award? If your idea is timely, interesting and newsworthy you’ll stand out and the host may contact you sooner rather than later.

3. Have something interesting to say. If you plan to talk about your products, then don’t ask to be a guest. Just buy an ad instead. However if you do have interesting and sort after information regarding your products and their benefits you may be able to work that into your interview.

4. If you have sample interviews or media exposure, tell the host about it in your inquiry letter. Point them to your media page where you link to examples of past interviews, if you have them. Once you have completed your first interview, be sure to get it added to your media page of your website.

One Good Turn Deserves Another

With the Host or Hostess giving so much to you, what are you expected to do in return?

• In most cases you will expected to provide a list of questions.
  
• Send a sample. If you are going on the show to talk about your book, then mail a copy of the book to the host before you appear on the show.
  
• Tell your newsletter list about the interview and where to find it. Your host will be more likely to have you back if you are willing to publicize your interviews.
  
• Be a gracious guest and be sure to say “Thank you” when the interview is over.
  
• Remember to smile, although the listeners can’t see you, they can hear it in your voice.
  
• Send a thank you note or maybe even a small gift to the host as a token of thanks. You will be more likely to be asked back for future interviews if you use your manners. When the host is scratching for guests you will always spring to mind because of your likeable persona and your good manners.