If you’re running a podcast, you can get to a real pickle.
Getting downloads to it is a big problem. Especially, when there are so many competing podcasts that can give you a run for your money.
So here’s what to do.
Run a contest
Running a contest is a great tactic to get more downloads for your podcast. A prize say an iPad or a gift voucher is enough of a bribe. List the tasks that enter a person into the contest and build up points for him.
For example, you could ask them to
- Subscribe to your podcast,
- To leave a rating
- And to subscribe to your mailing list.
All of these steps ensure that you get continued interest for your product.
The rules of participation should be as simple as possible to follow. This encourages maximum participation.
Run this contest for a long duration like a month or so. Promote it on social media channels and get people to talk about you.
Adding new subs, getting reviews and getting people to download the show can build traction for your podcast on iTunes. Which means iTunes begins to promote you on their own by ranking you higher.
Promote these contests on social media channels like Twitter, that still have their organic reach live and kicking.
It incentivizes people to download your episodes.
Promote Your Podcast on Twitter
Being helpful on Twitter can help you grow your following.
A great example I often like to quote is Steve Schoger’s twitter account: They grew from a mere 400 followers to 20000. It barely took two years for the stupendous growth.
He offers some quick advice on navigation structures, that is easy to implement.
Such byte sized advice goes a long way to build an audience on Twitter.
The account grew from 436 followers to over 20,000 in less than two years!
- Ask your listeners a question in the podcast. Then ask them to reply on Twitter.
- Run a twitter themed contest.
Post links to your podcasts when you reply on Twitter. If someone’s asking a question and your podcast has the answer share the link to it.
Repurpose content form your episodes as short videos, memes and quotes and other downloadable content.
Ask Your Audience What They Want to Listen To
Doing this is easy with polls. You gather topics of interests, and exact questions that the larger community is interested in. They may be interested in videos, text content or podcasts.
Find guests who you can use to boost credibility and ask them to tweet or share your link to the podcast. This will get you some visitors and hopefully downloads.
Add your podcast portfolio to your Twitter bio.
Find other podcasters and leave a straightforward message. Explain who you are and what you do.
Be A Guest On Other Podcasts
Being a guest on other podcasts is a great way to get in front of a cool new audience.
It’s the podcasting equivalent of guest posting.
They get to know more about you and as the word spreads you generate more views and shares for your own brand.
Be realistic. Not every show is going to accept you. If you’re just getting started may be reach out to people who are of the same size as you are.
Up and coming shows are the best way to get some recognition for your own brand.