You want to make a big deal out of your new podcast to get as many eyeballs (and ears) on your show as soon as it launches. Four key considerations will help you spread the word.
1. Utilize your command network.
Now is the time to ask your friends, family, community, audience, stakeholders, colleagues — anyone in your network — to help support the show. To show support, you can suggest that people in your network:
- Share your podcast on various social media channels. When others share your podcast, make it simple for them by providing ready-to-share content like quotes, graphic illustrations, audio snippets, audiograms and links. The easier it is to share, the more likely people will amplify your reach.
- Leave a review on their chosen listening platforms. Just like any content or product, strong ratings will signal credibility and garner new listeners who are willing to give your podcast a chance.
- Spread the word to others outside of social media. Personal recommendations carry weight. These interactions can help attract your podcast to those who might not find it online.
2. Don't be afraid to be vocal.
This podcast is part of your larger communication strategy, so utilize all the tools you've got. Alert your email list, social channels and groups you're involved with that a podcast is coming. Your audience will already be on board and ready when your podcast goes live.
3. Interact with your audience.
During launch week, thank every single person who comments on your podcast. Ask them to leave a review and share it with anyone they know who might find it valuable. Even if your audience is small to start, direct interaction can boost your energy level and provide valuable feedback for future podcast episodes.
4. Promote with videos and audiograms.
The reality is that social media algorithms LOVE video clips, so it would be foolish to pass up the opportunity for exposure. If the idea of producing a video spot as a promotional tool doesn't sound like your lane, lean on your visual information manager for support or create an audiogram. Audiograms are short, partial audio clips of your content set to an image (one that represents your podcast) and a waveform. Check out these two examples of audiograms: American Forces Network-Incirlik and Fridays with Fleet: Sailor Innovation.
You can use AFN to reach your audiences
To help spread the word, the American Forces Network is a Department of War program available to help promote and distribute your podcast. Radio and TV advertising are effective methods for advertising, especially for those stationed overseas.
If you enter into a service agreement with an AFN podcast, this will allow you to enjoy all the benefits of being part of the network. This includes access to DVIDS for worldwide distribution and subject matter assistance for planning, marketing, banding, public affairs guidance, consistent quality control and listener metrics. Bonus: They don't charge for airtime!
Be sure to understand AFN's guidelines!
Your spot must meet AFN’s professional broadcast standards.
- Spot material should be submitted five business days before the first on-air date to ensure the product meets technical and policy considerations. Spot material submitted without adequate lead time may not air as often or as long (i.e., number of days, as desired).
- United States phone numbers and physical addresses of offices should not be included visually or audibly.
- Website URLs are the preferred call to action, as audience access to the internet is the most common and the least expensive method for them to obtain additional information.
- Products/informational materials offered on a website must be available free of charge and access to those materials cannot require the user to establish an account or subscription.
- The solicitation of funds is prohibited.
- Regardless of the submission method used, an email must be sent to afnspots.dma@mail.mil that includes the following information:
- Name of the originating entity
- Entity points of contact to include a work email and phone number
- Start and stop air dates
- Any content restrictions or specific audience information
All questions related to spot submission requirements should be directed to the AFN Operations Manager at afnspots.dma@mail.mil.