E810 - LinkedIn, Podcasting, and the Relentless Sales Pitch - No, I Don’t Need 10,000 Downloads by Friday

Episode 810 - LinkedIn, Podcasting, and the Relentless Sales Pitch - No, I Don’t Need 10,000 Downloads by FridayLinkedIn, Podcasting, and the Relentless Sales PitchPodcast promotion can attract a steady stream of unsolicited offers promising more downloads, better rankings, new guests, greater visibility, and rapid growth. For podcasters, especially those new to the space, those promises can sound appealing. They can also create a lot of noise.Dave shares his experience with the growing number of LinkedIn connection requests and emails from people he does not know who want to sell podcast-related services. Some make impressive claims, including promises of reaching number one on Apple Podcasts. Others use generic praise that suggests they have listened to the show when they may have relied on AI instead.Pause Before You RespondA connection request does not create an obligation to respond. Before engaging, consider whether you recognize the person, whether they mention a specific episode, why they contacted you, and whether their service fits your current podcast goals.Dave recommends using the four P approach: pause, probe, protect, and proceed.Probe Before You BuyAsk specific questions. Which episode have they listened to? What problem do they think they can solve? What exactly does the service include? What methods do they use? What results should you realistically expect, and over what period?Ask for verifiable client references. Understand whether they use paid advertising, outreach, guest booking, playlist placement, or automated engagement. Find out who owns the accounts and data, and what happens if you cancel.Vague or defensive answers should raise concerns.Protect Your PodcastNever hand unsolicited contacts your passwords, two-factor authentication codes, email access, social media credentials, payment information, or remote access to your computer. Verify who contacted you before giving anyone access to the systems behind your podcast.Dave also shares an example of a promoter who damaged a podcast after the relationship ended, showing how much trust a podcaster can place at risk.Proceed With CareIf the answers make sense and you have completed your homework, proceed with a written agreement. Define the services, cost, timeframe, expected results, and what happens if either side decides to walk away.Dave also encourages podcasters to remember that they do not have to be available to everyone who wants access to their audience, inbox, or money.Your podcast is your responsibility. Be selective about who you let into your business, verify the promises you receive, protect your accounts, and make decisions based on your goals rather than somebody else's sales pitch.____Helping Podcasters Everyday! https://howtopodcast.ca/We would love to hear from you - here is our listener survey!https://forms.gle/GbrFv9DGszV8N4PW6