You’ve been in the podcasting scene for a bit and you’re ready to invite the first guest on your show. But how? Interviews are an integral part of any successful podcast – they spice up conversations, offer a different perspective on topics, and engage listeners. Conducting interviews presents its own unique set of challenges for even experienced podcasters, and can be especially intimidating for beginners.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed about interviewing someone for the first time, fear not! Here are some helpful tips to make sure your interview goes off without a hitch.
Before you bring a guest onto your podcast, it’s important to research them thoroughly. This will help you to understand their background and what they can offer your listeners. Look for information online, such as on their website or social media profiles, and try to find interviews or talks they’ve given in the past.
To ensure that your podcast interview flows smoothly, it’s a good idea to create an outline beforehand. Write down the key topics or questions you want to cover, and organize them in a logical order. This will help you stay on track during the interview and ensure that you cover all the important points.
Before the interview, it’s a good idea to have a pre-interview chat with your guest. This will give you a chance to get to know them better, and also help your guest feel more comfortable with you. Use this time to discuss the topics you’ll be covering, and to ask any questions you have about their background or expertise.
During the interview, it’s important to be a good listener. Let your guest speak and don’t interrupt them. Pay attention to what they’re saying, and ask follow-up questions to clarify or expand on their points. Remember, the interview is about your guest, not you.
Finally, it’s important to be respectful of your guest throughout the interview. Treat them with kindness and professionalism, even if you don’t agree with everything they say. Remember that your goal is to create an engaging and informative podcast, and being respectful will help you achieve that.
In conclusion, interviewing your first podcast guest can be a daunting task, but with the right preparation and approach, you can make it a success. By researching your guest, creating an outline, having a pre-interview chat, being a good listener, keeping it conversational, and being respectful, you’ll be well on your way to creating an engaging and informative podcast that your listeners will love.
