Thank you for agreeing to be a guest on The Novelist Game Plan! I can’t wait hear about your journey to connect with fans and getting your books in the hands of those fans. Learning how to be a podcast guest shouldn’t be a point of stress. I want you to feel comfortable and confident right from the start!
To make the process as pain-free as possible, here are a few tips to get you started.
1. Zoom
Many podcasters use Skype for interviews. I find it too risky; your time is precious and so is mine. I don’t want to spend 30-40 minutes of your time creating a wonderful interview only to have the software cut out and lose that precious interview. Plus, with Skype, not only do I have to record my side of the interview but you have to record your side and send it to me. With Zoom, I don’t have to worry about any of that and neither do you!
It’s super easy to use. I’ll email you a link to our interview meeting. You’ll click the link provided in the email and then follow the directions given. You may have to install a small application file but it is quick and easy! If you have any trouble, let me know!
Pro Tip #1: If you’ve never used Zoom before, take some time before the interview to practice with the application. Don’t worry, it really is easy to use!
2. Microphone
Do you need one? Not really, your computer should have one built-in. For better quality, I recommend using a microphone such as one built into a headset or using iPhone earbuds. Want to step up your game? Consider purchasing a microphone such as the one I use Audio-Technica ATR2100-USB. You can find a plethora of microphones for under $100 on Amazon. Purchasing a nice microphone is handy if you are planning to do several interviews or if you’re thinking of diving into the podcast field yourself!
Pro Tip #2: If you do choose to use a microphone other than the built-in mic or earbuds, there may be some setup involved. So, please take some time before the scheduled interview to get everything working properly. You’ll feel more relaxed and confident if you do so.
3. Headphones
Similar to the microphone. You can use the built-in speaker but a headset, earbuds, or headphones will enable you to hear clearly. Also, they’ll prevent the microphone from picking up my voice and sending it back through.
4. Recording
Recording the conversation is something you don’t have to worry about! I’m taking care of it on my end. Now having said that, please feel free to record the conversation. I have a checklist I perform for every show but, there is always the chance I may forget to hit the record button. So embarrassing, but it is a possibility. There are few to no podcasters that haven’t forgotten to hit record at some point in their career. You’d be doing me a solid. Really!
5. Relax
Tips on how to be a podcast guest wouldn’t be complete without letting you know to breathe. You’ve got this! I’ll provide you with a list of interview questions so you’re prepared. Don’t worry about surprise questions designed to get you flustered and say something you didn’t mean to say. But, interviews are dynamic, I can’t say that there won’t be a question that comes up spur-of-the-moment. But I want you to feel comfortable. If we talk about something you don’t want published on the podcast, let me know and I’ll make sure it gets cut in the editing. I want you to feel happy and comfortable with the interview. I want it to be something that not only I am proud of but you are too!
Thank you for agreeing to the interview!
Now that you know how to be a podcast guest, check out the About page to learn a little about your host and The Novelist Game Plan.
