The Social Media Trap: Why Likes Don’t Equal Listens

As a podcaster, you put in the time and effort to create awesome content. You naturally want to share it with the world! Social media seems like the perfect avenue, but there’s a catch… social media platforms aren’t built for audio. Here’s why relying on social media metrics might leave you feeling frustrated.

Mythbusting Metrics

We’ve all been conditioned to think likes, shares, and comments equal success. But for podcasts, these numbers often tell a misleading story. Why?

• Designed differently: Social media is geared toward short videos, images, and snappy text updates – not long-form audio.
• Silent Scrolling: Most people browse their social feeds with the sound off. Your carefully crafted episode gets muted by default.
• Low Engagement: Even when someone does stumble on your audio clip, the chances of them clicking through and listening to a longer episode are often slim.

So, Should You Trash Your Social Media Plan?

Of course not! Sharing your podcast content is still a good idea if you have an active and engaged community. However, don’t let social media be your primary promotional focus.

What Should You Focus On Instead?

• Dedicated Listeners: Pay attention to your podcast hosting platform’s analytics. How many downloads are you getting per episode?
• Subscriber Stats: Are you steadily growing your subscriber base across platforms like Apple Podcasts or Spotify?
• Audience Feedback: Do you get listeners’ emails, website comments, or direct messages? These are signs of true engagement!

Social Media Done Right

Instead of getting obsessed with vanity metrics on social media, use it strategically to build relationships and anticipation for your podcast:

• Audio Teasers: Share short, captivating soundbites that highlight a funny moment, an interesting discussion point, or a thought-provoking question from your episodes. These snippets should leave listeners wanting more and prompt them to click through to the full episode.
• Behind-the-scenes: Give your audience a peek into the recording process. Show bloopers, outtakes, or candid photos of you and your co-hosts setting up for a recording session. This content helps build a connection with your audience and allows them to see the personalities behind the podcast.
• Guest Highlights: Feature upcoming guests on your social media channels. Share a short bio, an interesting quote, or a question you’ll be asking them on the episode. Tag the guest in the post to generate additional buzz and encourage them to share it with their network.
• Direct to Listen: Include clear calls to action (CTAs) in your bios and posts, directing people to where they can listen to the full show. Provide direct links to your podcast on popular listening platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Stitcher. You can also use link-in-bio tools to consolidate all your listening options in one place.

The Takeaway

Social media is a tool. Don’t get discouraged by underwhelming numbers. Focus on building a true audience of dedicated listeners who love and consume your content where it’s designed to live – on podcast platforms.