Optimize Podcasts for Snapchat: 5 Strategies

Published on 31 July 2023 6 min read

Use Snapchat stickers to promote your podcast
Create a Snapchat Lens for your podcast
Share behind-the-scenes footage
Run a Snapchat ad campaign
Engage with listeners through Snapchat Stories

Podcasting has become a powerful tool for content creators. But like any other content medium, it requires smart promotion to reach a wider audience. So, how do you bring your podcast to the eyes (and ears) of Snapchat users? Here, we'll share five effective strategies on how to optimize podcasts for Snapchat.

Use Snapchat stickers to promote your podcast

Stickers are a fun and engaging feature of Snapchat, with many users incorporating them into their snaps. They are a great way to get your podcast noticed and build a loyal fan base.

Creating Custom Stickers

One way to use stickers is to create your own custom ones. This gives your podcast a unique identity on Snapchat. Here's how:

Create a design that represents your podcast—maybe your logo, the title of your show, or even your face!
Upload the design to a sticker-making platform like Sticker Mule or MOO.
Once your stickers are ready, share them with your Snapchat followers and encourage them to use them in their snaps.

Using Stickers in Your Snaps

Another way to use stickers is to incorporate them into your own snaps. Here's what you can do:

Choose a sticker that relates to the topic of your podcast episode.
Add the sticker to a snap that provides a sneak peek of the episode.
Include a call to action in your snap, like "Swipe up to listen now!"

Stickers may seem simple, but they are a powerful tool for spreading the word about your podcast on Snapchat. So start designing, and let these bright, flashy images lead Snapchat users right to your podcast's doorstep.

Create a Snapchat Lens for your podcast

Now let's take a step further and dive into the world of Snapchat Lenses. These are a unique feature of Snapchat that allows users to add real-time effects into their snaps using face detection technology. Imagine your listeners, snapping fun selfies while promoting your podcast! It's a win-win.

Designing Your Lens

First, you need to design a lens that catches the eye and represents your podcast. Here's a simple guide:

Use Lens Studio, Snapchat's own tool for creating lenses. It's user-friendly and has plenty of tutorials.
Your design should incorporate elements related to your podcast, like your logo or a catchphrase from your show.
Remember, the lens should be fun and engaging. Snapchat users love lenses that make them laugh or that can be used in a variety of situations.

Promoting Your Lens

Creating the lens is just the first step. Now, you need to promote it. Here's how:

Share the Snapcode for your lens on your other social media platforms. This allows your followers on these platforms to easily access and use your lens on Snapchat.
Use your lens in your own snaps. Show your followers how fun it is!
Encourage your listeners to use your lens and share their snaps with you. You can even feature the best ones on your podcast or Snapchat story.

Creating a Snapchat Lens for your podcast not only makes your content more engaging, but it also gives your listeners a way to interact with your show and share it with their friends. So, why not give it a try?

Let's talk about sharing behind-the-scenes footage. It's a fantastic way to connect with your audience and provide them with a deeper understanding of your podcast. Let's see how you can make the most of it on Snapchat.

Taking Authentic Snaps

The first thing to remember when sharing behind-the-scenes footage is to keep it real. Here's how:

Don't overthink about the setup. It's not a professionally shot video; it's a glimpse into your world! So, relax and keep it spontaneous.
Share moments from your recording sessions, your brainstorming meetings, or even your coffee breaks. Things that seem mundane to you might be interesting to your listeners.
Include your team. If there are other people working on your podcast, let your audience meet them!

Engaging your Audience

Behind-the-scenes footage is not just about showing, it's about engaging. Here's how you can involve your audience:

Ask for their input. Got a dilemma about an upcoming episode? Share it on Snapchat and see what your listeners think.
Respond to their snaps. If a listener sends you a snap in response to your behind-the-scenes footage, take the time to reply. It will make their day!
Share their snaps. If a listener shares a snap that is relevant to your podcast, why not share it on your story? It's a great way to acknowledge your community.

By sharing behind-the-scenes footage on Snapchat, you're giving your listeners a peek into your process, making them feel more connected to your podcast. It's another excellent answer to the question, "how to optimize podcasts for Snapchat?"

Run a Snapchat ad campaign

Okay, let's shift gears a bit and talk about Snapchat ad campaigns. These can boost your podcast's visibility like nothing else. Let's dive into the nitty-gritty of running a successful ad campaign on Snapchat.

Defining Your Goal

Before you start, you need to know what you want to achieve with your ad campaign. Here's a quick rundown:

Is your goal to increase your podcast's listeners? Then, you'll want to focus on ads that link directly to your podcast.
Or, are you trying to increase engagement on your Snapchat account? In this case, you'd want to create ads that promote your account and its content.

Choosing the Right Ad Format

Once you've defined your goal, you need to pick the right format for your ads. Here are your options:

Snap Ads: These are short, full-screen vertical video ads that appear in between stories or on Snapchat's Discover page.
Story Ads: These are branded tiles that appear in the Discover feed, allowing users to open and view a series of snaps.

Creating Compelling Content

Finally, you must ensure that your ad content is compelling enough to make users want to engage. Here's how:

Keep it short and sweet. Snapchat users prefer quick, bite-sized content.
Make the first second count. You need to capture the user's attention right away or they'll likely swipe away.
Include a clear call to action. What do you want viewers to do after watching your ad? Subscribe to your podcast? Follow you on Snapchat? Make sure it's clear.

Running a Snapchat ad campaign can significantly boost your podcast's visibility, making it an effective strategy to optimize podcasts for Snapchat. Remember, the key is to stay true to your brand while creating engaging, user-friendly content.

Engage with listeners through Snapchat Stories

Now, let's focus on something different. Snapchat Stories can be a powerful tool to engage with your listeners and keep them hooked to your podcast. Here's how to do it effectively.

Regularly Update Your Story

Consistency is key. Regular updates not only keep your listeners engaged, but also keep you on their radar. Here's what you could do:

Share snippets from upcoming episodes.
Post teasers or trailers.
Discuss interesting topics related to your podcast.

Use it as a Feedback Platform

Engaging with listeners isn't just about talking—it's about listening too. Snapchat Stories offer a two-way communication channel. Here's how to leverage that:

Ask for comments or suggestions on your podcast episodes.
Encourage listeners to share their thoughts or ask questions.
Respond to feedback and show that you value your listener's input.

Offer Exclusive Content

Who doesn't love bonus content? Offering exclusive content can make your listeners feel special and valued. Here are a few ways to do that:

Share behind-the-scenes content.
Offer sneak peeks into your podcasting process.
Provide bonus episodes or exclusive interviews.

By engaging with your listeners through Snapchat Stories, you are adding a personal touch to your podcast. Remember, engagement isn't just about numbers—it's about building relationships. And that's how to optimize podcasts for Snapchat effectively.

If you're looking to optimize your podcast for Snapchat and want to learn more about podcasting in general, check out Clara Escoms' workshop, '3 Steps to Launch your Podcast in One Day.' This workshop will not only help you create and launch a podcast quickly, but it will also provide you with valuable insights on how to adapt your podcast content for platforms like Snapchat.