Interview podcasts are among the most challenging types to prepare for and execute. The art of interviewing requires thorough planning and precise execution, as any mistake can make the guest uncomfortable and lead to a failed interview.

If you’re passionate about mastering the art of interviewing, discover how to prepare for successful interviews and examples of questions that can make your conversations engaging.

Preparing Compelling Interview Content

• Researching the Guest:
• Knowing the guest well is essential for a successful interview. Do the necessary research to learn about the guest, discover their work, interests, and professional background, and ask relevant questions.
•  Understanding the Audience:
• Knowing your audience is fundamental to success. In the context of interviewing, understanding your audience is vital to steer the conversation and interview in the right direction.
•  Preparing Questions:
• After researching the guest and understanding your audience, draft the questions you wish to ask. Also, prepare follow-up questions to make the conversation smoother, more natural, and interactive. Consider leaving room for spontaneous questions during the episode, as these can sometimes be more impactful than the prepared ones.
• Creating a Comfortable Environment:
• A comfortable environment brings the guest and creator closer, making them feel at ease during the conversation.
• Communicating with the Guest:
• This step helps reduce tension and builds a good relationship with the guest, leading to a successful interview. You can give the guest a general idea of the questions before the episode without their approval. This allows the guest to feel more comfortable knowing the interview’s direction. Additionally, it is vital to approach controversial topics tactfully and be well-prepared for any reaction.
• Choosing the Right Location:
• Ensure the recording location is suitable and free from distractions that could lead to a failed interview. If you don’t have good recording equipment, consider using the Podeo app to record, edit, publish, and distribute your content professionally.

• Conducting the Interview:

• Active Listening:
• When asking a question, listening carefully to the answer is crucial. Good listening positively impacts the interview by showing interest and encouraging the guest to provide valuable information. It also helps you create follow-up questions that make the conversation more meaningful.
• Avoid Interrupting the Guest:
• This is a common trap for many creators. Let the guest finish their thoughts without interruption, as this could disrupt their train of thought. However, be mindful if the conversation strays off course, and tactfully bring it back on track if needed. 

• Flexibility in Asking Questions:
• You may find that you can ask some of the questions you prepared. Be flexible enough to let the conversation flow naturally, especially if the guest touches on an important topic.

Post-Interview Engagement and Improvement

The interview doesn’t end when the recording stops. Post-interview engagement is crucial for success.

Expressing Gratitude:

• After the interview, thank the guests for their time, ideas, and information. Consider sending a message of appreciation later, as this strengthens the relationship further.
• Promoting the Interview:
  This step is essential to ensure the episode reaches a large audience. Use social media and all available marketing tools. Share the episode with the guests and encourage them to promote it. This makes the guest feel valued and helps spread the interview to a broader audience.
• Self-Critique: After each interview, reflect on what worked well and could be improved.
• Staying Updated: The podcasting world is constantly evolving. Keep up with new trends and techniques to enhance the quality of your content and interviews.

Engaging Questions That Make Content Stand Out

Ask unconventional questions that highlight unexpected aspects and provoke thought to make your interview unique.

• In-Depth Personal Questions:
• Ask the guest about significant challenges they’ve faced in their career, the lessons they learned, and how they overcame them. These questions make the conversation more profound and relevant.

• Future-Oriented Questions:
  For instance: “How do you see the future of your field in the coming years?” Such questions open up new possibilities and offer insights into the industry’s direction.

• Hypothetical Questions:

• Stimulate creativity by asking the guest to imagine scenarios that didn’t happen and consider how they would react. For example: “If you hadn’t chosen this profession, what would you have pursued instead?” or “How would you have handled a situation if you were in someone else’s shoes?”

The art of interviewing is a double-edged sword. It can be simple yet challenging. Follow these tips to avoid common pitfalls and ensure your success