Can Talking at a Conference or on a Podcast Boost my Business Profile?
A year ago if you had said to me I would be on stage sharing my knowledge and appearing as a guest on podcasts, I wouldn’t have believed you. But as I am on a mission to help as many female founders as possible get the visibility I believe they deserve, I needed to reach new audiences!
Why appear on a Podcast?
I am an avid podcast listener! I had an inkling that my target audience were likely listening to podcasts too. A little research later and yes – podcasts are a definite hit amongst my ideal clients. We all love them as we can multi-task and listening to them whilst driving, working or doing any one of the many things we do as small business owners and mums. Podcasts are a great use of time and you can learn so much - both personally and professionally!
My Favourite Business Podcasts
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“Passion, pain and perseverance: the highest highs and the lowest lows. Hear the powerfully honest conversations and life lessons of those brave enough to make the break and do what they love.”
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“A few years ago I was a broke, university dropout, living in a studio-flat in a rough area. At 18 I started a company which would eventually become "Social Chain" - an industry leading marketing company. At 26 the company was generating $600m a year in revenue. At 27 I resigned as CEO, and launched 'The Diary Of A CEO' podcast with the simple mission of un-filtering success and giving you the knowledge you need to create the life you want.”
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“Dear FoundHer... is a twice weekly letter to female entrepreneurs to inspire, motivate and provide actionable tips for success through thought-provoking conversations with some of the most successful founders and entrepreneurs who have paved the way. Hosted by award-winning entrepreneur, Lindsay Pinchuk, each week she picks the brains of some of her closest contacts, offering them the chance to share their teachable moments as well as business, marketing, content, social media tips and more! Your journey as a founder is the ride of a lifetime, some come on in and join us!”
Should I speak at a Trade Show?
Speaking at trade shows and different events mean that I get to meet people in real life and as someone that used to organise large business conferences, I have seen the power of a good keynote speaker! There is a different level of connection when people can come and meet you after a talk and for those that know me well - I like to talk! I find sometimes that by talking I can get more value across versus in writing and so by meeting people face-to-face or over a Zoom conference, I can often share a great deal more.
How Can speaking at an event or on a podcast help My Business?
It has been in my plan to feature as an expert on podcasts or as a keynote speaker since last April. In fact, it’s been a leading part of my strategy to increase brand awareness for Your AJency, and in turn getting my name out there to help more female founders. Admittedly, it isn’t always easy to make these choices that are so far out of my comfort zone, but despite the nerves, I have definitely seen the huge benefits to my business growth and increased visibility.
Earlier this year, I spoke at RetailFest at Top Drawer and last year saw me talk at the Home and Gift show in Harrogate. I’ve also appeared on the Rold Design podcast, and the Northern Afffinity podcast with plenty more in the pipeline.
Here’s what I’ve learned since getting involved with these collaborations as well as increasing brand awareness for Your AJency.
Preparing for these things gets your elevator pitch/bio perfected
It is so vital to have a strong couple of sentences about who you are and what you do to grab the attention of your audience. I feel much more confident when introducing myself at network events since doing these talks. It keeps evolving but has improved beyond recognition
It is a great reminder of the expert you are
The fact that people want you to be on a podcast is testament to your expertise. Remember you have knowledge that they know will help their audience, and your clients! If you pitch to the right podcast host, your target audience could be inspired by you.
There is no replacement for in-person events
In a post-pandemic world, we can all work remotely and that’s brilliant. BUT an in-person event is a great way to show up authentically really resonate with people – which in turn converts to leads and new clients. Appearing in-person is a great strategy for business growth and don’t worry if at first they aren’t paid speaking gigs! They will come!
Storytelling is sooo powerful
Storytelling is something we talk about constantly at Your AJency! You need stories to bring your content and brand to life! Whether you’re thinking about what you’ll say in your talk, or when writing your elevator pitch, people are more likely to remember what you said in a story than as a fact or statement. Use examples that have inspired you - it doesn’t always have to be just about your own experiences.
Introducing case studies really levels up your content!Podcasts and delivering talks can be really fun and are another powerful collaboration!
By choosing the right kind of podcast or talk to appear on, you are also opening yourself up to a whole new audience! Read how else you can boost your business with collaborations here.
You can never say your key messages enough
Your key messages are what make you and your business you! Make sure you keep referring back to get them across!
Now I’ve done a few podcasts and talks, they are something I have come to enjoy, despite the real nerves! It ended up being a real confidence boost that positioned me as an expert in my field and I have got clients off the back of it, so if you are on the fence DO IT. You won’t regret it.
If you are an event host and are looking for someone to talk about how to build your visibility as a business owner, get in touch. Or, if you’re looking to speak at an event or on a podcast, get in touch with me to discover how to pitch and find these sorts of opportunities. I’d love to help you get more visible and help you with a clear, actionable strategy.