written by
David Hooper

The "Amazon Hijack" Podcast Promotion

Podcast Marketing 2 min read

I've written previously on the subject of how to make your podcast interviews stand out by following up with hosts (or guests) via postal mail. It's easy to do, but also easy not to do.

If you do postal mail right, it can’t be ignored. Because of this, it's a great way to reach out to potential guests as well as followup with podcasters who have interviewed you. Postal mail can help you to establish strong connections that will help you with future opportunities.

How much do you want to establish a personal connection with somebody and be memorable? "Bigger" is often better, but it helps to be creative as well. When I was in the music business, I had people send me all sorts of things to get attention for their projects. One act sent me a full-size tombstone, which was both heavy and large, but it was no more memorable than the v̶i̶b̶r̶a̶t̶o̶r̶ "muscle massager" another act sent.

A Simple Approach For Podcasters - The Amazon Hijack

If you want somebody to immediately open your message to them, one of the most effective ways is to send it attached to a book shipped via Amazon. If you get a package from Amazon with your name on it, you will open it.

Then what? Beyond simply getting your message to somebody, this also activates reciprocity, a social rule that says we should repay those who do something for us.

People feel the need to return the kind of treatment they have received from you. This sense of future obligation associated with reciprocity builds relationships and sets up other exchanges.

There are a lot of ways to be nice to somebody. Why a book? In addition to being able to easily send something that has almost a 100%-guaranteed open rate, successful people read books. Also, the book you send says as much about you as the message you attach to it.

An Alternative Option

Send food. If sending something to an office, send something that the recipient can share with others as this with help to get people talking about you.

Here's a package I received from Amy Broghamer, after doing an interview with her for RED Podcast. It included not only brownies, but also a custom card.

The Bottom Line

Sending something via postal mail shows you're not "just another guest" and makes the pitches you do stand out. Even a postcard can go a long way in helping you to be memorable.

YOU DON'T NEED ANOTHER NEWSLETTER! But since you're here, how about one to help you grow your podcast audience?
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