I spotted this articles back in 2008 when i was just starting to podcast but I don’t think I ever got around to reading it. (maybe I did) But all the same it has some valid points. http://www.lifehack.org/articles/communication/10-tips-for-would-be-podcasters.html and some not so valid – I respond here to the points but specfically in relation to interviewing.
1. Have a script – But don’t stick to it. It is better to get something that flows and sound natural than a end product that is delivered in flat fashion.
2. Share your interview questions in advance – This is standard interview practice anyway. And when interviewing I try to get a feel for how the interview should go before hand. So sharing the questions and more importantly asking them if they have any suggestions for questions that you should ask is more vital. You invariably won’t have done your research thoroughly enough, so ask them for suggestions – you will cover exactly what it is that they want to get out of the interview.
You only wouldn’t share your interview questions if your dealing with a politician or it is an interview over a contentious issue.
3. be natural – is there any other way to be? It can be difficult though when you are faced with someone who is a hero of some sort to sound a little over the top. We have all fallen into that pit fall. But mostly be relaxed and try not to worry to much about the interview itself.
4. leave your DJ voice at home – This does make a great deal of sense but is actually part of point 3. you can’t be natural and have a DJ voice….
# Make your subject look good – Covered in point 2. Share the space – if you are interviewing someone don’t hog the air yourself – the interviewee has given up there time so allow them space to talk. We all know people who are like this in real life – “let me tell you what happened to me” although some of that is good as you are relating real life experiences to the public – don’t let it overpower the interview.
There are loads more places to find out about interviewing techniques – so go find them.
