Are You Listening to Listeners?
Your listeners will tell you what they want if you create an opportunity for them to do so.
It’s easy to make this happen, but it’s also easy to overlook it, which is what most podcasters do.
First, open the dialogue. In every episode, ask your listeners directly.
Things like:
What topics resonate with you?
What do you want to hear more of?
What do you want to hear less of?
How can I help you?
What products or services would enhance your experience?
But don't just ask—encourage interaction. And make it easy for listeners to do this.
Create polls or surveys.
Use forms that gather the information you want to know.
There are tools for this—Google Forms, SurveyMonkey, and social media polls. Tell people exactly where you want them to go.
Then pay attention to their feedback. Make them feel seen, heard, and valued.
Analyze the data. Look for recurring themes and specific problems you can help people solve.
Then engage with authenticity. Respond genuinely.
Thank people for their insights, both personally and within your podcast. This builds trust and shows you value their opinions.
Heard enough? It’s time to adapt and implement what you’ve learned.
Create content or products that align with their needs.
If they mention wanting more interviews with a certain type of person, and this works for you, start booking them.
If there's interest in courses or other non-podcast content, think about developing this material.
On the fence? Try it.
What worked? What didn't?
Look at metrics like listener growth, engagement rates, and sales.
Did listeners respond positively to the changes you made? Did listenership increase?
Use this data to plan future content and offerings.
Your audience is your best focus group. They'll guide you to success if you let them.
What has your audience told you lately?
Are you listening?
