The Art of Interviewing: How to Get the Most from Your Guests
Podcast interviews are where ideas come alive, connections are made, and listeners stay hooked. But a great interview doesn’t just happen—it’s an art form. Mastering the art of interviewing is key to unlocking meaningful conversations, creating compelling content, and leaving a lasting impression on your audience.
In this post, we’ll explore how to prepare for interviews, ask better questions, and keep your conversations engaging, all while making your guests feel at ease. Whether you’re a seasoned podcaster or just starting out, these tips will take your interviews from good to unforgettable.
The Problem: Uninspiring Interviews Lose Listeners
Let’s face it: not every podcast interview hits the mark. Without preparation or thoughtful questions, conversations can feel forced, shallow, or even boring. Listeners will notice, and they’ll tune out fast. Even a fascinating guest can only carry an interview so far if the host isn’t guiding the conversation effectively.
Step 1: Preparation Is Everything
A great interview starts long before you hit record. Research your guest thoroughly:
Know their story: Read their books, listen to their interviews, and review their work.
Understand their expertise: Familiarize yourself with their niche or industry.
Identify connections: Look for areas where their story aligns with your podcast’s theme or audience interests.
Pro Tip: Write a list of potential topics but stay flexible. The best conversations often come from unexpected tangents.
Step 2: Craft Better Questions
Generic questions lead to generic answers. To stand out, ask questions that provoke thought and inspire storytelling:
Open-ended questions: Encourage your guest to elaborate. Instead of “Do you like podcasting?” try “What’s been your most surprising moment in podcasting?”
Follow-up questions: Pay attention to their responses and dig deeper.
Personalized questions: Tailor your questions to the guest’s experiences and expertise.
Pro Tip: Avoid asking questions that can be easily answered with a quick Google search. Focus on insights only your guest can provide.
Step 3: Build Rapport with Your Guest
When your guest feels comfortable, the conversation flows naturally. Here’s how to create that connection:
Start with small talk: Break the ice before the interview begins.
Show genuine interest: Actively listen and respond authentically.
Be respectful: Avoid interrupting and give your guest space to share their thoughts.
Pro Tip: A simple “I’ve been looking forward to this conversation” can go a long way in setting the tone.
Step 4: Keep Your Audience in Mind
Your guest is a big part of the equation, but never lose sight of your audience. Frame your questions in a way that makes the answers relevant to them:
Context is key: Briefly introduce topics so your listeners can follow along.
Ask what your audience wants to know: If you’re unsure, poll your listeners for questions.
Pro Tip: End each interview with a question like, “What’s one piece of advice you’d share with our listeners?” to give them actionable takeaways.
Step 5: Edit with Intent
Even the best interviews can benefit from thoughtful editing. Trim out long pauses, repetitive points, or off-topic tangents to keep the conversation engaging. Aim for a polished final product that flows seamlessly.
How Soundwaves Audio Can Help
At Soundwaves Audio, we help you create professional, engaging podcasts from start to finish. Need help prepping for an interview? Want guidance on crafting questions or editing the final product? We’ve got you covered.
Let’s make your next interview your best one yet. Contact us today to learn how we can elevate your podcast to new heights!
