Reaching target audiences is central to book promotion, and top book publicists advise that audio interviews offer valuable opportunities. Radio and podcast interviews are often longer and target specific groups, making them useful for authors. Since there are many shows, your chances of being invited as a guest are good—plus, many writers start their own podcasts. Sharing these appearances on social media is simple, and participating by phone cuts travel costs and saves time. Be sure to include audio interviews in your promotion plans, as they are an effective way to connect with your audience.
When appearing on the radio or podcasts, publicists suggest several techniques to make the most of the experience. Begin by recording yourself before the interview and listening back. Are you clear and persuasive? Do you enunciate and speak understandably? If not, keep practicing until you improve. Try to avoid filler words like "like" and "um." Aim to sound authentic, relatable, and inspiring, giving listeners a reason to consider your book. With some effort, you can polish your delivery. As you become more comfortable, you’ll naturally build rapport with listeners and win their favor.
If you're interviewed by phone, try standing up—it often helps you project your voice with more strength and clarity. Wearing professional attire can boost your confidence and lend authority to your responses. Remember, hard selling rarely works and can make you seem unprofessional or even desperate. The best strategy is to be helpful and offer useful information, building a connection with your audience. When your book is casually mentioned at the end, listeners are more likely to consider buying it without feeling pressured. It’s most effective if making a purchase occurs to them naturally.
When getting ready for an interview, create a list of talking points you hope to cover. If the host's questions don't address them directly, you can subtly guide the conversation toward your points with your responses. Always answer the host's questions, but expand thoughtfully to include your key messages. For topics you'd rather avoid, answer calmly and try to conclude on a positive note. These interview skills will grow stronger with practice. You may find yourself enjoying interviews more as you gather confidence and polish. The net result will be more book sales and visibility for you.
