6 Ways to Build a Podcast Audience & Get More Podcast Downloads
Hey Friend!
You started your podcast…YES! Now, you’re wondering how to actually build an audience online.
You don’t want to sit in front of a computer all day and you are sick of the social media and reels hustle. Amiiiright? I got you, Boo!
That’s why I am sharing 6 ways you can build an audience which means more listeners and more podcast downloads. God is calling you to make an impact in this world that only you can make! Let’s get your message out into the world where it is needed.
These strategies will allow you to grow your podcast organically, and let your show work for you to drive leads to your business or mission.
6 Strategies to Build Your Podcast Audience and Get More Podcast Downloads
1. Grow your podcast audience with an SEO-friendly podcast name that is clear to your niche market
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is the process that helps search engines like Google learn what your content is all about. Your target audience is using specific common keyword searches to find solutions to their problems. By using the right keywords in your podcast title, you are helping your potential clients to find you, therefore, building an audience for your podcast that is your target market.
If you aren’t sure what keywords your niche market is searching for, I highly recommend conducting market research.
CHECK OUT THESE RELEVANT PODCAST EPISODES ABOUT MARKET RESEARCH
Market Research Questions to Ask to Learn Your Target Market
Podcast Strategy Session! STICKY SEO & Keywords + Getting Super Clear on The SOLUTIONS You Provide!
Permission to MICRO-NICHE! + 3 Steps to Rebranding & KEYWORDS
If possible, before you decide on your podcast name, double-check that the website domain and social media accounts are also available.
2. The BEST way to build your podcast audience quickly is to consistently create content that solves the problems of your niche market
We’ve all heard the phrase “cash is king.” Well, in the podcasting industry, we like to say “content is king.” When planning your content, make sure you are providing tangible solutions to the key problems of your listeners. In turn, they will subscribe to your show so they can catch all of your podcast episodes as soon as they air. Also, over time, you’ll become a go-to expert in your niche, which will also increase client referrals and, therefore, increase the impact God is calling you to make. How beautiful is that?
3. Creating keyword-rich show titles will catch listeners’ attention and increase your podcast downloads
Including keywords specific to your niche market will be so important to also include in each of your podcast show titles. However, it’s also critical that you choose keyword phrases that are truly authentic to the episode content.
4. To build a podcast audience, you absolutely MUST be sharing and promoting each podcast episode
Of course, using SEO-friendly keywords and creating consistent content that solves the problems of your niche market will help you grow your podcast audience as well as increase your downloads. However, by marketing and sharing your own podcast episodes, you will be reaching your warm audience, otherwise known as your sphere of influence.
Great examples include social media accounts such as Facebook and Instagram as well as your email list. But, be sure to add grassroots marketing strategies like texting your friends and loved ones and asking them to support you. Ask them to share specific podcast episodes with others they know who could benefit from your podcast content.
5. Pitching to be a podcast guest on relevant shows can build an audience at a rapid rate
Getting featured on other podcasts whose niche market is similar to yours is a surefire way to attract new listeners to your show. When a podcast host of another show interviews you, it’s a win-win scenario. They get to bring fresh content to their listeners, and many of those listeners end up checking out your show.
Podcast pitching doesn’t have to be hard. I recommend starting a casual conversation to get to know the podcast host better. Review their podcast episodes to see where you can add value to their audience. By offering the podcast host some new content ideas they can provide to their target audience, they will often accept your proposal to be a guest on their show.
Bonus tip: Learn way more about podcast pitching in my Podcast to Profit Mastermind.
6. Having a consistent episode content schedule will increase your podcast downloads from your loyal listeners
Consistency is key when creating content for your target audience. When your podcast episodes are published on a consistent schedule, your niche market, or avatar, knows they can count on more of your solutions and exactly when your episodes will be published. This will increase your podcast downloads because your potential clients will keep coming back.
Building a podcast audience and getting more podcast downloads are crucial to growing a successful business. Implementing these 6 strategies will help you to reach your target market faster and turn first-time listeners into loyal subscribers that keep coming back.
I pray this blesses you!
Xo,
Stef
P.S. Listen to podcast episode 447 for the full training on how to build an authentic podcast audience and get more podcast downloads so you can make a bigger impact in your calling from God!
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best way to start a podcast?
Get clear on your niche market, pick an SEO or keyword-rich podcast name, and do market research. Then, follow a plan like this free one at www.thepodcastlaunchchecklist.com.
What are the best free keyword research tools?
My favorite grassroots strategies for finding SEO-friendly keywords is to use your Google and Pinterest search bars (If you are NOT using Pinterest for your business, you SHOULD be! Check out some of my free trainings on Pinterest Hacks and Increasing traffic to your website, blog and podcast with Pinterest.
What are the biggest mistakes new podcasters make?
Funny you should ask! My last episode 5 Podcasting Mistakes to Avoid When Starting a Podcast discusses the top common mistakes to avoid when starting your podcast. Make sure you check it out!
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