Putting hours and hours of effort into making your show the best you possibly can just to log in to check your analytics and see very few downloads is… discouraging, to say the least. How do you fix it and increase your podcast downloads?
How can you get the word out that you have the best show on (insert your topic here) around? Here are 5 strategies you need to try out:
Do a podcast swap
A podcast swap is when you collaborate with another podcast host that has a similar ideal audience as yours. You can read the details of podcast swaps over in our podcast swapping dedicated post, but essentially, podcast guest swaps allow you to build connections and create great episodes with other podcast hosts, which ultimately gets you into the ears of their listeners.
Leverage social media
You have probably heard this time and time again, but social media is an incredibly effective marketing tool when utilized correctly. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok can be game changers when it comes to growing your listenership. Post regularly on a page dedicated to your show. Static images are great but short-form videos are outperforming them constantly. Organic reach is unmatched when it comes to TikTok videos and Reels, so start creating a few for your episodes!
Host a giveaway
Who doesn’t love free stuff? Entice your listeners to rate, review, or share your podcast on social media for a chance to win a prize. The key to running a successful giveaway is to think of your audience’s interests. If you are a course creator or you sell some type of product that your audience is already interested in, you can give one away for free in your giveaway for guaranteed participation.
Keep SEO in mind
SEO stands for search engine optimization, and it is crucial when it comes to getting your show discovered. Think about it, if you’re looking for a new show to listen to on a certain topic or hobby, what do you do? You go into Apple Podcasts or Spotify and search for the topic you’re interested in. The shows that use that word in their descriptions and titles will pop up. Think about what people might be searching for when they are looking for a show like yours and use those exact words in your show description, titles, and episode descriptions. Make sure to use SEO strategies on your podcast website and show notes as well!
Email your list about new episodes
If you don’t have an email list, this is your sign to get one. Creating an email list with the people who already love your show can be a game-changer for your podcast growth. Offer a freebie to your listeners for signing up for your email list and then email them weekly when you have a new episode release. What do you include in an email? An enticing show summary that demonstrates what your listener stands to gain from listening to the episode.
While none of these strategies will take you to the number one spot overnight, with some consistency and dedication, they can make a huge difference in the success of your show. It’ll be a slow start, but if you keep at it, you’ll have increased download numbers in no time.
Are you interested in learning more about growing your podcast and listener base? Read more of our favorite posts here:
How a Podcast Membership Could Benefit Your Business
Why You Should Do A Podcast Launch Giveaway (+ 5 Ideas for What to Giveaway)
How to Create a Podcast CTA That Your Listeners Won’t Be Able to Resist
