What’s the Best Way to Interview Someone?

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I enjoy interviewing people. It’s not what I enjoy most about producing content, though. If you look back in my archives, you’ll see a lot of my early stuff was all interviews, done strictly in audio format. I get asked frequently to be interviewed. I make a horrible interview. I never stay on topic for long, so I hate giving them. I’d rather have an open discussion. I think discussions are more interesting for others to listen to, the whole ebb and flow of conversation. I don’t think I’m the world’s worst interviewer, but I’m always picking up new tips and tricks.

I got an email from Libby, who recently landed a new job as an Interviewer. She was asking me if I had any tips on how to be a successful interviewer. I’m not some succesful anything. I’m just a Geek… I’m just Chris. I’m a talker. That’s just what I do. My ’style’ when it comes to interacting with others is very casual. People feel more relaxed when they don’t feel like they’re on the spot, so to speak. Be very cognizant that the more conversational you make the interview, the better.

Every interview will be different. Some people are more open, while others are closed up. Some people, you may have to lead. I like talking to people… that’s what I think makes a great interviewer. You have to really like to talk to people, get to know them and what makes them tick. The bottom line is, you’re trying to capture a moment in time. You may have a list of questions in your head or on paper. Be prepared, but not overly so. Listen more to what the person is saying. You may get questions on the fly that will turn out far better than whatever you had planned to ask. Being an excellent listener is key to leading a good interviewer. Interviewers should do more listening than talking. I know many of us tend to interrupt too much, and that’s a pitfall of what we do.

When I’m interviewing someone, I’m doing it for myself, as well as my audience. I’d much rather be part of a discussion, instead of a one-way conversation. It’s just more dynamic this way, more interesting to anyone who may be watching/listening/reading. If you’re comfortable with your style and yourself, the person you are interviewing will be more comfortable, as well. That’s why I feel so strongly about trying to have an open discussion, rather than sticking hard and fast to a set question list.

It all boils down to finding your own style and making it work for you. Be comfortable with what you’re doing. Most importantly… have fun!

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