Interviews for your podcast

People love listening to interesting conversation because dialogue makes things fun. But when you’re podcasting solo, you miss out on that element. However, interviewing guests can add that exciting element to your podcast.

The interview is not as simple as asking a question and getting an answer. There are a few things to consider.

1. Prepare for the interview. Be sure to do some background research on your topic. The background investigation includes the 5 questions and answers (who, what, where, when, why, how), the previous media coverage your subject has received, and obtaining bio sheets, if applicable.

2. Prepare your questions. Write down your questions ahead of time and be sure to organize them fluently.

3. Prepare to listen. When novice interviewers have written questions, they tend not to hear the answer that the person gives. They just ask a question and move on to the next question. But when you actually listen to the answers, you will come up with more questions that will add depth and excitement to your interview.

4. Prepare your guest. You’ll get a much better interview if your guest is prepared too. Before you begin, be sure to inform your guest of the types of topics that will be discussed. Don’t give each question word for word because that will give your interview a “written tone.” However, give them a basic description so they can prepare.

More tips:

o One thing to remember is to always keep control of the interview. Don’t let your guest wander.

o Be sure to ask open-ended questions. Avoid questions that begin with, do you have, could you, could you?

o Avoid asking leading questions. Get your opinion out of the question before you ask. For example, if you ask “Were you excited about the tour?”, You will get a yes, I was excited or no, I wasn’t excited. The guest will focus on the word “excited.” But if you ask “How did you feel during the tour?” you will get a much better answer.