How to Conduct Engaging Interviews for Your Podcast

Are you ready to take your podcast to the next level? Conducting engaging interviews is an essential part of creating successful podcast content. A great interview will keep your listeners coming back for more, and can even attract new followers to your show. But where do you start?

Preparation is Key

The first step to conducting an engaging interview is to prepare. Research your guest and their background to get a clear understanding of who they are and what they bring to the table. This will help you to formulate questions that are both relevant and interesting.

It’s also a good idea to have a rough idea of the direction you want the interview to go in. This will help you to stay on track when asking questions and ensure that you cover all the important topics.

Ask Open-Ended Questions

A common mistake that many interviewers make is asking closed-ended questions that only require a one-word answer. This can make the interview feel stilted and unengaging. Instead, opt for open-ended questions that allow the guest to elaborate on their answers.

For example, instead of asking “What inspired you to pursue your career?” try asking “Can you tell us about your journey to become [insert profession here], and what inspired you along the way?”

Active Listening

Active listening is an essential skill for any interviewer. It involves paying close attention to what your guest is saying and responding appropriately. One way to ensure that you’re actively listening is to paraphrase what your guest has just said.

For example, if your guest says “I started my own business because I wanted more creative freedom,” you could respond with “So it sounds like creative freedom was a big motivator for you.”

Inject Some Personality

No one wants to listen to a dry interview that feels like it’s been pulled straight from a textbook. Injecting some personality into your interviews can make them feel more fun and engaging.

One way to do this is to add some humor. But be careful not to go overboard – you don’t want to risk offending your guest or your audience.

Conclusion

Conducting engaging interviews for your podcast takes time and practice, but with the right preparation and approach, you can create a show that keeps your listeners coming back for more. Remember to ask open-ended questions, actively listen to your guest, and inject some personality into your interviews to keep things fun and engaging.