Become a Pro Podcast Interviewer: Tips and Tricks this year
Updated: 18 Nov 24
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To become a better podcast interviewer, focus on preparation, active listening, and asking open-ended questions. Research your guest thoroughly to tailor insightful questions, build rapport through genuine curiosity, and let the
conversation flow naturally. Structure your interview with clear segments, and embrace pauses to allow guests to share deeply. Post-production is key—edit for clarity and engagement to keep your audience hooked.
Introduction
Podcasting has become a dominant medium for sharing knowledge, stories, and experiences. At the heart of a successful podcast is the ability to conduct compelling interviews. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned host, refining your interviewing skills is crucial to creating meaningful and engaging episodes. In this article, we’ll explore actionable steps to help you become a better podcast interviewer.
Before anything else, clarify who your audience is and what they value. Are they entrepreneurs, tech enthusiasts, or casual listeners looking for entertainment? Tailor your questions to uncover insights that align with their interests. This alignment not only engages listeners but also builds loyalty.
Tip:
Use social media polls or listener feedback to understand what topics or questions resonate most with your audience.
Research Your Guest Thoroughly
Preparation is key to conducting insightful interviews. Research your guest’s background, recent work, and social media presence. Look for unique angles or lesser-known facts to base your questions on. However, avoid overloading the conversation with information; leave room for organic dialogue.
Example:
Instead of asking, “Tell us about your book,” say, “In your book, you mention [specific insight]. What inspired that perspective?”
Craft Open-Ended Questions
Open-ended questions encourage guests to share detailed stories and insights. Avoid “yes” or “no” questions unless they are part of a larger narrative. Good questions start with “how,” “why,” or “what,” and invite the guest to dive deeper into their expertise or experiences.
Examples:
“How did you overcome the challenges of starting your business?”
“Why do you think this approach resonates with today’s audience?”
An interview is not just about asking questions but also creating a comfortable environment for the guest.
Start with light, conversational topics to put them at ease. Use active listening techniques, like nodding or brief affirmations (“That’s fascinating!”), to show genuine interest.
Pro Tip:
Send a pre-interview email with the topic outline and let your guest know what to expect. This reduces anxiety and improves communication flow.
Master the Art of Active Listening
Great interviewers adapt to the flow of the conversation. Avoid sticking rigidly to your pre-written questions. Listen actively to what your guest is saying and follow up with relevant, spontaneous questions. This approach often leads to the most authentic and memorable moments.
Tip:
Keep notes or timestamps during the conversation to refer back to important points mentioned earlier.
Balance Structure and Spontaneity
While preparation is important, don’t let it stifle spontaneity. Strike a balance between sticking to your planned questions and letting the conversation flow naturally. Some of the best interviews happen when you veer off-script to explore an unexpected insight.
Example:
If a guest casually mentions an exciting project, pivot to ask about it rather than moving on to the next planned question.
Prioritize Clear Communication
As the host, your role includes guiding the conversation. Avoid interrupting your guest, and always summarize or clarify complex points for your listeners. This ensures your audience stays engaged and understands the discussion.
Tip:
Use bridging phrases like “That’s interesting—let’s explore that further” to connect ideas seamlessly.
Invest in the Right Tools
Technical glitches can ruin an otherwise great interview. Ensure you have reliable recording equipment and software. Test your setup before the interview to avoid disruptions.
Essentials:
Quality microphone
Noise-canceling headphones
User-friendly editing software
Evaluate and Improve Continuously
Listen back to your episodes to identify areas for improvement. Were there moments where the conversation felt forced? Did you interrupt too often? Constructive self-critique helps you refine your approach.
Pro Tip:
Invite feedback from trusted listeners or colleagues for an external perspective.
Engage with Your Audience Post-Episode
After the episode airs, interact with your audience through comments, polls, or Q&A sessions. Their feedback not only helps you improve but also fosters a sense of community around your podcast.
Conclusion
Becoming a better podcast interviewer takes practice, preparation, and a willingness to adapt. By understanding your audience, crafting thoughtful questions, and mastering active listening, you can elevate your interviews to captivate both your guests and listeners. Embrace the journey of improvement, and your podcast will stand out in an increasingly competitive space.
1. What are the key skills to becoming a better podcast interviewer?
Becoming a skilled podcast interviewer involves preparation, active listening, and asking thoughtful, open-ended questions. It’s also crucial to build rapport with your guest and make them feel comfortable. Practising these skills consistently will help you engage your guests and audience effectively.
2. How do I prepare for a podcast interview?
Start by researching your guest thoroughly. Understand their background, work, and any topics they are passionate about. Prepare a list of questions but remain flexible, allowing for organic conversation. This preparation ensures you ask relevant questions that elicit deeper insights.
3. What makes a good question for a podcast interview?
Good podcast interview questions are open-ended and thought-provoking. Instead of asking yes/no questions, aim to ask “how” and “why” to encourage detailed responses. For example, “What inspired you to start your career?” or “How do you think your experience will impact the future?”
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