How can you follow up with guests without being pushy?

Following up with guests is like tending a garden—it requires care and patience. Start by expressing gratitude for their time and share the episode upon release. Politely ask for feedback, allowing them time to respond at their convenience. Be genuine in your approach, expressing interest in future collaboration without pressure. Use various channels respectfully if needed, but understand and accept their decision if they can't engage further. Cultivating relationships takes time; maintaining a considerate and appreciative approach sets the stage for potential future collaborations and respectful connections.

Remember, maintaining guest relationships is paramount. Start with a sincere thank-you note post-interview. Express genuine appreciation for their insights and time. Acknowledge their value to your audience and the podcast's success. Avoid being pushy; instead, convey interest in future collaborations. Establish a post-interview routine to periodically check in without overwhelming. Consistent communication builds a lasting rapport, ensuring a mutually beneficial, long-term relationship with your podcast guests.

When Interviewing I always end with asking what my guest's long term dream is, and short term goal. This allows me to know how I can help them in the future. I can make a note and later connect them with someone else who might be able to help them meet that goal. This lets my guests know I have not forgotten them, and care about their success. (I don't have a podcast but I have interviewed artists for written articles.)

Sharing the episode with your guest is a simple, must-do. This can be bundled in the thank you email or a separate touch point. If you're looking to develop a professional relationship, I'd argue making this a separate touch point is helpful relationally and could open a door for further conversation. The tone and attitude of this email should be friendly and grateful--your guest took time out of their schedule to appear on your podcast. They can share with their network or they don't have to, but either way it was a delight to work with them. Etc. I find it's best to share links to Apple Podcasts and Spotify, the episode cover art, and any quote graphics that you will use to promote the episode.

I emphasize the importance of genuine connection. Following up with guests requires finesse. Share relevant content, industry updates, or opportunities. Demonstrate ongoing interest, ensuring your interactions add value. Avoid being pushy; instead, cultivate a relationship that extends beyond the episode. This sustained engagement builds rapport, fostering long-term collaborations and enhancing the overall podcast experience for both you and your guests.

Half of the value of recording a podcast w/ a guest is the ability to form a real connection with that person. When I hit it off with a guest / host, I add them to my CRM & set a quarterly "due date" to follow-up / check in.

After each episode, express gratitude and highlight the positive impact of their insights. Seamlessly transition by asking if they know someone equally compelling for your show. Leveraging referrals not only sustains rapport but fuels organic growth, creating a network of valuable connections that enrich your podcast over time.