‍Podcasts have become a popular medium for people to consume news and information. There is now a wealth of informative, insightful podcasts covering just about every topic, and the financial services sector is no different.

For the financial services sector, podcasts are a useful element in a communications program as they reach an engaged audience seeking to stay informed and gain insights.  Taking part in podcasts can help build relationships, educate the public, and foster community.

However, as with any media interview, it is important to be mindful of what you say, how you say it, and the technology you have when doing a podcast.

Here are our tips to make sure you are ready for your next podcast interview:  ‍

Listen to the podcast

It might seem unnecessary, but it is the best way to understand the format and kind of podcast you are going on. You can understand the type of questions the interviewer asks; as well as hear the tone of the discussion to be better prepared for the interview. No one podcast is the same, so it is greatly beneficial.  

Get to know the audience

This can be done through either listening to the podcast or research. It is good to get an understanding of the podcast’s target audience and their level of knowledge on what you will be talking about. Sometimes the audience will be institutional experts; others will be everyday people wanting financial help, so knowing the audience will help you prepare the type of language you use to ensure it is appropriate and understandable for that audience. If you are unsure of who the audience is, consult your PR consultancy or in-house media contact for direction.  ‍

Do a tech check

Making sure you have technology and browsers that are compatible with podcast software is important. A desktop or laptop is the preferred form when doing a podcast interview. Additionally having a microphone or separate headphones is necessary for a clearer sound quality and prevent outside noise being picked up, rather than relying on your computer’s built in mic and speakers. Try and test with a colleague before the day to ensure everything is working properly to minimise disruptions during the interview.

Ask yourself these questions:

• Do I have access to a desktop or laptop?

• Is my browser compatible with the podcast software?

• Do I have a working microphone or headphones?

• Do I have a stable internet connection?

Conduct your interview in a quiet area

Seems straight forward - making sure doors are closed and that people will not accidentally disrupt or talk loudly in your general vicinity. However, it also includes staying away from fans, air conditioners or electrical appliances as it can become a nuisance in the back of audio. Also ensuring your volume is not too loud as it can often bleed into the input.  

Be conversational

Sometimes podcasts will have a video element, but usually it is your voice and tone that attunes listeners to what you are saying, so it is important to speak naturally with good emphasis and not too many pauses. Being conversational also involves actively listening to your interviewer as to not mishear questions and to also build off the notes and comments shared to create a flowing conversation. Make sure not to come across as robotic or cut the interviewer off.

Practice because it won’t be re-recorded

It doesn’t hurt to rehearse what you might say in an interview to ensure no accidental slips or disclosing information that is not for the public. Podcasts are only recorded once and, as with normal interviews, you cannot say something is off the record during or after you have already said it.

Remember the standard media interview procedure

Finally, remember the general rules and etiquette for a media interview. Just because it is in a different format, same rules apply. Read Tips for getting the most out of interviews with journalists, as a reminder of what those are.

‍