Starting a blog, podcast, or video channel can be extremely difficult when you are getting started, but the first thing you'll want to do is introduce yourself to get out the word of your new publication. The key to getting those additional followers and showing that you know what you're talking about is networking. Today we're going to break this down into two categories: Online and In-Person networking.
Online Networking
I'm not saying anything earth-shattering by saying the Internet is a very large place and your show may never be seen. However, it doesn't have to be that way. Use our suggestions below to increase the chances of your show being seen and give yourself a chance to build your audience!
Join The StadiumScene.TV Network
If you're a sports-themed channel, join us at the StadiumScene.TV Network. As of November 2021, we're working with over 200 active publications across eight different countries covering a large variety of sports and topics. One of the perks of our free plan is all members have access to the contact book for our partners. We give you easy access to reach out to our active partners and start networking with others just like you.
Use Social Media
Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram are great ways to build a following. The Direct Message Features of each platform also allow you to get in touch with other users to introduce yourself or offer your services as a guest. Of course, don't be a pest and don't repeat message people over and over again. Be professional.
Be A Guest
Offer your services as a guest blogger, podcast guest, or video channel guest for another show. The easiest way for people to learn about you is to put yourself out there on a platform where people will read, listen, or watch. Being a guest is a great way to build friendships and share your knowledge with the world.
Invite Other Shows As Guests
Many times, if you are a guest on a different show or guest blog for someone else, that host will come on your publication to return the favor. Guests can create a great dynamic and generate additional interest in episodes/posts.
Ask For Subscribers/Reviews
Ask your listeners for reviews. If your podcast lacks reviews or your video channel lacks subscribers, people are less likely to stop and check out your work. During your broadcast always thank people for listening/watching and ask them to subscribe to support your channel. As a podcast, ask for them to leave a constructive review so you know what to work on.
In-Person Networking
In-person networking can be very difficult as the COVID 19 pandemic has resulted in canceled events, policy changes, and events being moved to online only. That being said, there are still a lot of
Small Business Networking Groups
Whether you want to admit it or not, your blog, podcast, or video channel is a business. While not a traditional business, many communities have small business networking groups that meet at bars, restaurants, Top Golf, etc to talk about their business and discuss the challenges with each other. It also is a great way to pick up a few social media followers, a few listeners, or maybe even find a venue to do a live show (see next section).
Business Cards
Make sure you have business cards and more importantly, don't waste your time with paper business cards! Our friends at Linq have developed an amazing digital business card system that allows you to update your information on an app on your phone and share the information by tapping your plastic card, a wrist band, an Apple Watch Band, or a "tap" sticker that fits on your phone.
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Do a Live Show in Front of an Audience
This may not be something you want to do for episodes 1-10, but after you have some of the initial technical issues and formatting worked out, why not try to do a live show at a sports bar? The LADS Podcast helped build an initial following of their soccer podcast by doing a live show at a soccer bar after the UEFA Champions League Final. What better way to build some initial interest and fans locally at your local soccer pub? You'd need to contact the bar owner and coordinate the event long in advance to make sure it's ok and allow the bar to advertise for the podcast.
Gianna Belcastro of Women's Sports Matter broadcasted live at Wizard World Chicago. While Wizard World isn't exactly a traditional venue for a sports podcast to broadcast, the response was overwhelmingly positive and generated a lot of interest for the show. Performing at an event like this takes a lot of time to register and prepare, so make sure you give yourself enough time before committing to an event like that.
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