What to look for in a Podcast Manager?
When I started my first podcast 10 years ago, I had no idea what I was doing. I knew I had a great idea and a community that I wanted to serve. I hit the ground running but of course I ran into a few walls and some speed bumps. But thankfully I didn’t quit and that’s what happens to a lot of people who start a podcast because they don’t know all the moving parts when it comes to managing them.
Since starting I’ve been able to produce and manage podcasts that have acquired Emmy nominated guests, been in the top ten percent of the most globally shared and nominated for podcast of the year.
If you aren’t familiar with everything that goes on behind the scenes to make a podcast successful it can be overwhelming on what you need from someone who is going to manage your podcast.
Here are a few things to consider when looking for a podcast manager. Note, each manager may have different offerings, but the common goal is that they make sure all the moving pieces are connected and allowing you to show up for your audience with no stress and an organized plan.
1. Do they have experience? You need your manager to have knowledge about podcast. It doesn’t mean that they must have a certain number of years under their belt, but they should be able to show you someone that they have worked with (or their own). Asking for testimonials is a great place to start.
2. Great communication. Podcasts have many moving parts, from guest and plans for the season of the show. Along with expectations from both the manager and the host. It should be clear communication from your manager so that you as the host feel comfortable and in the loop of what is going on. Also, you should have a primary way that you communicate, whether it’s slack or any other project management tool. In addition, to clear boundaries on communication times and responses.
3. Organized and detail oriented. Do they have systems in place to make sure they receive your downloaded audio files and other deliverables? You don’t want to have to keep sending items over that have already been sent.
4. Creative. Podcasts are more than just editing. Don’t get me wrong, editing is a major key, but they also should be able to see your vision and execute it in your unique voice. This means great storytelling needs to be apart of the plan.
5. Research Skills. Podcast managers may not know all the subject matters and topics that their clients are covering but they should be able to research to ensure that when conveying show notes or any other details that are accurate.
6. Management skills. This person is keeping up with the day-to-day task of running your show and you want to be able to just show up. The point is to make your job easier so you can operate in our zone of genius and creativity.
7. Are they within your budget? Clearly ask your potential manager what services come along with their management package to make sure you know what is included in their rate.
This list is just the beginning of where you should start, but these questions ensure you are headed in the right direction. If you have any questions, you can always schedule a discovery call or drop us an email, we would love to hear from you.
