Getting featured on Apple Podcasts can significantly boost your podcast’s visibility and attract a larger audience. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about getting featured on Apple Podcasts, from understanding their selection criteria to optimizing your podcast for the Apple Podcasts app.
1. Why Being Featured on Apple Podcasts Matters
Apple Podcasts is one of the largest podcast directories in the world, accounting for over 30% of podcast listeners globally. Getting featured on the platform can lead to:
- Increased exposure: When your podcast is featured, it’s placed in front of millions of listeners in the app’s “New & Noteworthy” or “Top Shows” section.
- More downloads: Featured podcasts often experience a surge in downloads, subscriptions, and listener engagement.
- Authority and credibility: Being featured boosts your credibility as a podcaster, which can attract more listeners and potential sponsors.
2. Apple Podcasts Feature Categories
Before diving into the strategies to get featured, it’s essential to understand the categories Apple Podcasts uses to highlight shows:
- New & Noteworthy: This section highlights new podcasts that have been launched within the last 8 weeks. It’s often the first place listeners go when looking for fresh content.
- Top Shows: Apple Podcasts ranks shows based on listener engagement, such as downloads, ratings, and reviews.
- Curated Sections: Apple handpicks shows for curated categories, such as “True Crime,” “Business,” or “Comedy.”
Knowing where you want your podcast to be featured can help you tailor your strategy accordingly.
3. How Does Apple Select Podcasts to Feature?
Apple Podcasts doesn’t publicly disclose the exact criteria they use to feature shows, but based on industry insights, they typically look for:
- High-quality, original content: Apple prefers podcasts that are well-produced and engaging.
- Engagement metrics: Shows with high download numbers, subscriptions, ratings, and reviews are more likely to get featured.
- Podcast launch strategy: New shows or significant updates (such as new seasons) have a higher chance of being featured.
- Podcast artwork and branding: Podcasts with professional and visually appealing artwork are more likely to stand out.
- Relevance to current trends: Shows that tap into popular or trending topics often get Apple’s attention.
4. Step-by-Step Guide to Get Featured on Apple Podcasts
4.1 Optimize Your Podcast Artwork
Your podcast artwork is the first thing listeners and Apple’s curation team will notice. Apple’s editorial team often prioritizes visually striking artwork, so ensure your cover art meets the following guidelines:
- Dimensions: Minimum size of 3000 x 3000 pixels, in .jpg or .png format.
- Legibility: Ensure your podcast title is clear and easy to read, even on smaller screens.
- Branding: Use consistent colors, fonts, and logos that align with your podcast theme.
- Originality: Avoid using stock images or generic templates. Create something unique that reflects the personality of your podcast.
4.2 Craft a Compelling Show Description
Your podcast description is vital for both listeners and Apple’s algorithm. Here’s how to optimize it:
- Concise and engaging: Write a description that grabs attention within the first few sentences.
- Keyword-rich: Use keywords related to your podcast’s niche, but avoid keyword stuffing.
- Call to action: Include a CTA, such as “Subscribe now” or “Listen to the latest episode.”
4.3 Create High-Quality Content Consistently
Apple Podcasts rewards shows that publish consistent, high-quality content. To increase your chances of being featured:
- Consistency is key: Release episodes on a regular schedule (weekly, bi-weekly, etc.).
- Audio quality: Ensure your podcast has clear audio without background noise or technical issues.
- Engagement: Create episodes that encourage listener interaction, such as call-ins or social media shoutouts.
4.4 Encourage Ratings and Reviews
Apple Podcasts heavily considers listener engagement when selecting shows to feature. Encourage your audience to leave ratings and reviews by:
- Asking for reviews at the end of each episode.
- Running a giveaway: Offer a prize for listeners who leave a review.
- Engaging with reviews: Respond to reviews on social media or shout out listeners in episodes.
4.5 Leverage New Episodes, Seasons, or Launches
New podcasts, episodes, and seasons are prime opportunities to get featured. Here’s how to maximize this:
- Create a launch strategy: Plan a multi-episode launch to generate buzz.
- Use trailers and teasers: Promote your upcoming season with short teasers.
- Submit early: If you’re planning a launch, submit your podcast at least 1-2 weeks in advance to Apple Podcasts.
4.6 Optimize for Apple’s Search Algorithm
To get featured, your podcast needs to be discoverable. Apple’s search algorithm looks at:
- Keywords: Include relevant keywords in your podcast title, episode titles, and descriptions.
- Engagement: Focus on increasing ratings, reviews, and subscriptions.
- Listener retention: Create episodes that keep listeners engaged until the end.
5. Best Practices for Submitting to Apple Podcasts
When submitting your podcast for review, keep these best practices in mind:
- Ensure your podcast follows Apple’s guidelines: Apple has strict content and technical guidelines. Make sure your podcast complies with their terms of service.
- Submit early: Submissions can take time to process. Plan to submit at least two weeks before your desired launch date.
- Check RSS feed validation: Use tools like Podbase or Cast Feed Validator to ensure your RSS feed is valid.
- Monitor analytics: Track your podcast’s performance and listener engagement to see if changes need to be made.
6. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Trying to Get Featured
Low-Quality Artwork
Many podcasters overlook the importance of high-quality artwork. Avoid using pixelated or cluttered images.
Inconsistent Posting Schedule
Apple looks for podcasts with consistent release schedules. Missing episodes can hurt your chances of getting featured.
Keyword Stuffing
Overloading your podcast title or description with keywords can lead to penalization by Apple’s algorithm.
Ignoring Ratings and Reviews
If you don’t actively encourage listener feedback, you’ll miss out on a crucial ranking factor.
7. Key Takeaways: Increasing Your Chances of Getting Featured
- Focus on Quality: Both in terms of audio production and content.
- Optimize for Search: Use relevant keywords but avoid keyword stuffing.
- Encourage Engagement: Ratings, reviews, and listener retention play a critical role.
- Leverage New Launches: New podcasts and episodes are more likely to get featured.
- Submit Early: Plan your submissions ahead of time to account for Apple’s review process.
Conclusion
Getting featured on Apple Podcasts can be a game-changer for your podcast’s growth. By optimizing your artwork, content, engagement, and marketing efforts, you increase your chances of catching Apple’s attention. Focus on creating a high-quality podcast that resonates with your audience, and follow these strategies to maximize your visibility on the platform.
