From Someone Who Landed More Than 50 Guest Spots.
By Janet McHenry

There are so many promotional approaches writers can take when launching a new book. Because the concept behind Praying Personalities: Finding Your Natural Prayer Style (Kregel, Feb. 2024) is unique and intriguing, I decided it was worth pursuing interviews with podcasters. I was right: 50 podcasters booked and interviewed me.

Here was my process to make inquiries and follow through:

  • Make a list. I belong to the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association (AWSA) and the Christian Authors Network (CAN). Both organizations have lists of podcasters that are proprietary for their members. I made notes about the program focus of each podcast on the lists and I applied to those relevant to my book’s focus. I created a Word document chart with each podcaster’s name, the podcast name, contact info, query date, interview date, episode date, and a box to X when I’d sent a thank-you note. I added to this list as I learned of other podcasts.
  • Create a one-sheet. Using a Canva flyer template, I created a digital one-sheet (which is often actually TWO pages) for the purpose of seeking interviews (or even speaking gigs) related to the book. I included my headshot, an image of the book cover, the book’s hook and summary, the audience takeaway/benefits, a short bio, and a list of possible interview questions.
  • Write your query. I sent a formal, individualized email to each podcaster containing these paragraphs: (1) a couple cordial sentences to establish our friendship or point of connection; (2) an inquiry about interviewing on the podcast with bulleted info about my book, its hook and short summary, and the kind of approach we could take in the interview given the podcaster’s audience; and (3) a short note of appreciation.
  • Research the podcast. I studied each podcast so I knew its focus and audience. I also subscribed and provided a review when I could locate those options. (Some are hard to figure out!)
  • Email the queries. Along with the individualized query, I sent the following:
    • Headshot
    • Book cover
    • One sheet

Interview invitations came quickly, and I was ready with 4×6 notecards with facts from my book because it is heavy on detailed content.

These were my follow-up steps:

  • Promote the interview. After an interview, that same day I promoted the fact that I had done that interview by creating memes with Canva—using graphics from the podcaster’s website. I posted this along with the podcaster’s link and an Amazon link (when possible) to my book on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
  • Thank the podcaster. For every interview, I wrote a snail mail thank-you note and included my business card and Looking Up! logo sticker.
  • Promote the episode. When the episode aired, I used graphics and links the podcaster provided to promote that episode on social media.

Some years ago, I considered creating a podcast and even pursued training, but I

eventually decided that it’s better for my own sanity to partner with those who’ve

already got those ministries in motion . . . and to do it well.

 

Janet McHenry is a speaker and author of 27 books—eight on prayer, including PrayerWalk, Praying Personalities, and her newest, Looking Up! Finding Joy as You Read and Pray Through the Bible. Janet loves to coach writers and will be teaching two workshops, “How to Write a Life-Impacting Bible Study” and “How to Write Devotions and Write a Devotional in 90 Days” at the upcoming Cascade Christian Writers Spring Conference (virtual), Saturday March 8, 9:00.  See our Spring Conference page for the full conference schedule and registration details.