The best interview guide

This guide will teach you how to conduct an effective interview in a simple and straightforward way. Whether you’re a journalist, blogger, or simply want to learn how to better communicate with others, these tips will help you ask relevant questions and get the most out of your interviews.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to prepare for an interview, set the stage for a comfortable conversation, listen actively, ask open-ended questions, avoid leading questions, and wrap up the interview effectively. We’ll provide examples of relevant questions and highlight the importance of creating a positive and respectful environment for the interviewee.

By following these steps, you’ll be able to conduct interviews that are informative, engaging, and enjoyable for both you and your interviewee. So let’s get started!

1. Prepare: Before the interview, research the person and the topic you’ll be discussing. Come up with a list of questions to ask, and think about how you want to structure the conversation.
2. Set the stage: Start by introducing yourself and explaining the purpose of the interview. Make the interviewee feel comfortable and at ease.
3. Listen: Pay attention to what the interviewee is saying, and let them speak without interrupting. Show interest and engage with their answers by asking follow-up questions.
4. Be clear and concise: Make sure your questions are clear and to the point. Avoid asking too many questions at once, and try not to go off on tangents.
5. Use open-ended questions: Ask questions that allow the interviewee to elaborate and share their thoughts and experiences. Examples of open-ended questions include:

• Can you tell me more about…?
• How did you feel when…?
• What do you think about…?

6. Avoid leading questions: Try not to ask questions that suggest a particular answer or point of view. For example, instead of asking “Don’t you think that…?”, ask “What do you think about…?”
7. Wrap it up: End the interview by thanking the interviewee for their time and insights. Ask if there’s anything else they’d like to add, and let them know when and where the interview will be published.

Remember, the key to a successful interview is to be prepared, listen attentively, and ask thoughtful questions. By doing so, you can create a meaningful and engaging conversation that will inform and inspire your audience.