10 Ways to Grow Your Podcast Audience in Spring and Summer 2022

What are the best ways to grow your podcast in the Spring and Summer 2022

You’ve released episodes of your podcast. What strategies do you use to boost the number of people who listen to your podcasts and radio shows? Every podcaster is confronted with this issue. There is no shortcut here; gaining more listeners requires a plan that you can bank on. The next stage is to follow through with these actions on a regular basis. We have compiled a list of steps to help you build your podcast’s audience in this article. Even if you’re a seasoned podcaster, these pointers will come in handy. Traditional marketing & advertising methods, such as print and television ads, as well as PPC and social media ads, have become second nature to us as marketers. Some may be unfamiliar with how to promote this content, as podcasting is still a relatively new phenomenon in business-to-business (B2B). If you can only get your podcast in front of the B2B podcast audience, you’ll find success. B2C audiences are just as important depending on your podcast’s theme. You can use a variety of episode and show-level podcast marketing strategies if you have the necessary equipment. We’re confident that you’ll walk away from this post with new strategies to grow your podcast audience..

How do I build my podcast audience? Here’s How…

Here we will discuss few important topics which will help you to increase the number of audience. LET’S GET INTO IT!

Submit your podcast to many directories and apps

It’s a basic piece of advice, yet it’s one of the most crucial. Increasing the number of podcast listeners means having your show available on all of the popular podcasting platforms, so the first step in podcast marketing is to submit your RSS feed to all the podcast directories you can locate. Because they are the most significant, start with Apple, Google, Spotify as your first stops.

What is RSS stand for?

All of your show’s relevant information can be found in an RSS feed, which is a prepared text document. Anyone can read or access its contents because it is hosted on a server and has a public URL/link. For example, it includes your program’s name, description; episode titles; links to the audio files for each episode; and other information about your show and episodes.

My podcast doesn’t have an RSS feed, so what do I do?

Using the RSS feed, anybody may sign up for your show, stream or download your episodes, or subscribe to your program through your website or their preferred podcast app. Anyone who wants new episodes of your podcast will have to come to your website to sign up for an RSS feed, or they can acquire a direct download link from you via email or message if you don’t have one. To ensure that new episodes of your podcast are available to listeners who have subscribed to your show in podcast directories like Apple Podcasts, Google, Spotify, and others, these directories use your show’s RSS feed to automatically download and display new episodes. As an alternative to using the podcast directories, your audience can subscribe directly to your show’s RSS feed using any podcast player app that is compatible. There are various different apps that can subscribe to RSS feeds and download and display information from them.

Podcasts on Apple

For a long time, podcasting was ignored by the main players. Apple’s open podcast directory became the most famous, but the company did nothing to monetize podcasts. There were many startups that came and stayed, either trying to get exclusive distribution or developing advertising networks that connected sponsors and producers. Although the place has remained open and accessible, anybody can record a podcast, post it to the internet, and submit its feed to the podcast directory. There is no podcast version of YouTube. However, this might be changing soon.

Spotify

In the same way that Apple did in 2020, Spotify has allowed podcast makers to sell subscriptions directly to their listeners. It’s evident that, in contrast to Apple, Spotify is putting its faith in podcasts to become the “world’s leading audio platform,” as they have stated few years back. Because podcasts have better unit economics than music, this is the main reason. There is more to be done, however. People utilize dozens of such smaller networks on a daily basis. It is important to you that your show be available on each and every one of these platforms. Fortunately, the procedure is straightforward. So you have to create an account with each service and submit your show using their online submission form.

Patreon

With Patreon, your fans and followers can become your most important financial backers. “Aren’t fans already supporters?” is a legitimate question. However, let’s take a closer look. When you listen to a song by one of your favorite artists on Spotify, the company pays them less than a penny. The founder of Patreon, Jack Conte, would garner millions of views on a YouTube video yet only get $100 from it. Before Patreon, despite having a big following, creators were actually losing money doing what they loved. Patreon now eliminates the third companies that take most of your money. They put it into practice and proven the premise that if you focus on generating material that your audience enjoys, they will pay for it. This paradigm removes the constraints imposed by third parties that limit your creative freedom and deplete your wallet. What are the benefits of Patreon? 5% to 13% of your gross revenue, depending on the advantages you desire

2. Take into account podcast search engine optimization

You can’t do much to improve your podcast’s SEO because it’s an audio medium. Your episode titles, though, are still significant. Your podcast’s title is a major ranking factor on podcast directories and listening apps utilized by potential listeners. When naming an episode, keep these things in mind: Incorporate the names of any speakers or topics that your listeners are interested in into your podcast Be descriptive and enticing in your writing. Entice listeners with mystery, but steer clear of apparent clickbait. Search for that type of episode using the terms and phrases your listeners would use. Using titles like “The Young Entrepreneur Podcast #37” or something meaningless will turn readers away. Some huge shows use this, but only seldom does it work for new or small podcasts)

3. Include video in your podcast

Video is preferred by certain folks. They won’t watch a video podcast, but they might love your content even if it’s only available in audio format. You may reach a broader audience, if you add video into the podcast. These are 3 possible approaches to this problem:

You may add a image to it to make it video file
Shoot a video with your guest
Produce creative video material that includes animation and other footage; upload it on YouTube.

With Mixergy, an audio file is attached to a picture, which is then uploaded to YouTube and shared as a video. All YouTubers can now use it.

4. Become a member of the podcasting community.

In addition to guest appearances on other podcasts, you can take a more active part in the community or your niche’s by promoting your own podcast. For example, the Podcasters Helping Podcasters LinkedIn group is an excellent podcast community that can make you a BIG star in the podcast community. If currently has over 1,500 members and growing. Participate by adding value to communities that are significant to your podcast. Assert your knowledge, give suggestions for discussion, and establish a positive reputation for yourself. Make mention of your show when it’s appropriate, but don’t turn into a self-promotional spammer. You can also join podcasting-related conferences, fairs, and meetings. An international conference for healthy brands is an excellent place to meet like-minded people in your industry to grow your podcast audience, as well as to build relationships with other people. Always keep in mind that your fellow podcasters are your competitor. If you’re in need of a podcaster, think about how you and another podcaster could collaborate to help each other out. Perhaps you could invite each other as guests of each other’s show. Try cross-promotion on social media. Alternatively, you may simply repost each other’s stuff on your Twitter accounts. There are numerous methods to collaborate with others.

5. Produce a trailer for a podcast

Use a trailer to attract new audience to your broadcast. People like to listen a short trailer before they commit to an entire episode. However, you can’t merely show them a few seconds from a previous show. Your podcast’s worth can’t be fully conveyed if you don’t have a unique selling proposition. You could, for example, create a video montage. An opening that explains about the listener’s attention is also an option. Highlight your most intriguing portions during your live broadcast. It’s time for you to shine! Posting your personalized podcast trailer on Facebook or any social website is a fantastic idea. Pin it to the top of your initial post to make it easier for people to find.

6. Organize a contest in exchange for reviews.

Giveaways are tried-and-true methods of building anticipation for a product or service. Freebies are a big draw for people and they’ll do whatever it takes to get their hands on them. However, you must exercise caution. Few people will only talk to you if they have a chance at winning anything. They aren’t likely to become long-term fans. Make sure that you gain something, such as positive reviews. You can promote a contest by mentioning it on your show. The only thing they need to do is post a comment on your podcast’s page on Apple, Google, or Spotify if they want to be considered for a promotion. Even if the reviewers don’t watch every episode, they’ll watch for the winner announcement and leave a review that will live on in perpetuity. Make sure to post your giveaway on every social website. Increase the viewers who see your announcement by purchasing ads. Non-listeners must also participate in the giveaway. Facebook ads are a very effective way to reach your target audience As they help you find the exact audience members that match the theme and demographics of your podcast.

7. it’s time to take social media seriously

Many podcasters did the mistake of not utilizing social media to its full potential. It’s a shame that they don’t use their social media accounts more effectively. You may get various attentions on social media if you play your cards well. Don’t forget to set up your own social media accounts for your podcast. Posting is the only way to overcome your fear. Posting many times within 24 hours is acceptable. You’re not going to lose your loyal followers.

Before releasing an episode, promote it with a teaser. Every episode should be hyped up to the max. As a result, you’ll be teasing new content and promoting your current offerings at once.
Your posts should have a unique hash tag associated with your brand. They can help you generate buzz! Utilize up to 30 hash tags on Instagram.
Every post should have included hash tags relevant to the topic. An episode focusing on a strong female leader? You can use hash tags like #girlpower and #girlboss. Check out MediaGirlNetwork.com, the all female podcast network.
Make sure to include guests in all of your social media posts. Use their hash tags as well.
Make sure your podcast is tailored to the medium. In comparison to Facebook users, TikTokers prefer films of less than 15 seconds.
Engage your target audience by posting to relevant Facebook groups as well as Slack workplaces and Discord servers.
Make your voice quite heard in the comments section! Snippets and clips from your show can be used as Facebook content. To publish an audiogram or video, you need to record a few phrases. Respond to all comments to increase your comment count showing your audience members that you care about their feedback.

8. Invest a little money in advertising.

Many of the methods we’ve discussed thus far necessitate a significant investment of time. They do the job, but not immediately. Want to learn how to fast increase the number of people who listen to your podcast? Try to invest money in advertisements. New listeners can be gained by purchasing advertising space on other podcasts. You only have to make sure that the podcast you advertise on is similar to yours, so your audience will be able to hear both of them. Podcast directories, such as the World Podcast Network or SparkToro, or even a simple search will easily turn up similar shows to yours. Do not underestimate the power of repeated mentions when it comes to getting new listeners interested in tuning into your show. If you don’t want to miss out on the opportunity to make an impact, we recommend purchasing ads for at least four episodes. Paid advertising on social media or search engine like Google is always a reliable option. In order to identify listeners who are interested in the subject matter of your podcast, you can use any of these methods.

9. Email marketing is a good investment.

You’ll be able to get email addresses from visitors to your website once it’s up and running. Sign up option at the end of your page, on your social post, or as a background on your entire website are all effective ways to collect the information of your followers. Once you get this information, you can employ email marketing, which is the most successful method of communication for firms. Email is a common method podcasters use to tell their listeners when new episodes are available. Email marketing is the traditional and trustworthy way to keep in touch with your customers. Even if you don’t get any money from the promotion, it’s perfectly acceptable to refer your subscribers to your favorite Netflix show you think they would enjoy to create a binge watching marketing campaign.

10. Interviews are a great way to gain awareness.

Having an interview show is a great way to get your programme in front of a new audience. The guest will let their followers know about their facade on your show, which is a free form of advertising for you. Each episode serves as a valuable marketing tool. Celebrities aren’t necessary for guests. However, you can invite anyone who can tell a story in a interesting way. Simply ensure that your guests have enough information to talk about to keep your listeners engaged and that the information they provide is worthwhile to them. To help your guests advertise your programme, provide them with information they need to do it themselves.

Your own unique podcast logo/artwork.
The episode’s best scene or speech.
A hyperlink to your podcast’s website that can be tracked.
Tags and hash tags of your choosing

It’ll be much easier for your visitors to spread the word about your programme if you provide them with everything they need.

How podcasting increased during COVID-19

Before the pandemic, podcasting was on the rise. When the coronavirus initially impacted American business in March, individuals stopped commuting and going to the gym. Podcasting, too, took a significant blow, downloads fell by around 10%. Fortunately, the slide was just temporary. Despite the fact that people are still not commuting, evidence reveals that podcast listeners have discovered new methods to incorporate podcasts into their daily routines. Since the coronavirus epidemic broke out, millions of people in the United States have seen their daily routines drastically altered. Since we’re spending more time at home, we’ve migrated our purchasing habits to the internet, and even our content consumption habits have changed. Most employees still do all of their jobs from home, which is convenient for them. More time is spent watching television and other forms of media when people are confined to their homes due to weather conditions. During the 2016 Snowpocalypse, this was true for my colleagues on the East Coast, and it is true now for COVID-19. New listeners seeking some semblance of routine in a chaotic world have found solace in podcasts.

Conclusion

In terms of marketing, podcasting has advantages & disadvantages. In the end, it’s just a matter of placing your program in front of the right people, wherever they may be and providing fantastic content. This is a huge benefit because it doesn’t require a lot of money or time to get started. With a well-marketed podcast, you can start reaping the rewards right away this summer. The marketing of podcasts has never been easier than it is right now. Marketing and show runners like you can now easily transcribe, produce clips, monitor deep statistics, and more with our industry-first B2B marketing platform, making it easier than ever before for your podcast to eventually get traction and longevity. Let us show you the difference!

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