188 Shut Up and Listen - Podcaster Interview Best Practices

Just One Tip from Your Podcast Performance Coach

If you interview people on your podcast you need to constantly be improving your podcast interview skills. In this episode, I dive into the art of interviewing, which goes beyond asking good questions. It's about creating engaging conversations and extracting valuable insights from your guests. So, get ready to make your podcast unmissable with these 5 essential tips to become a better interviewer.

Tip #1 - an interviewer's greatest skill is to know when to be quiet and actively listen. Yes, having prepared questions is important, but true magic happens when you listen attentively to your guest's responses. Lean in, get curious, and ask follow-up questions, challenge your guest, or ask for examples and stories to uncover those golden nuggets of wisdom.

Now, let's talk about interrupting. Tip #2 is to avoid excessive interruptions. While some interruptions can be compelling, too much of it can annoy your guest and frustrate your listeners. Find the right balance to maintain a smooth flow of conversation.

Moving on to Tip #3 - always represent your listener. Think about what your audience might be curious about or need clarification on, and don't hesitate to ask those questions. Your listeners will appreciate your thoughtfulness and feel engaged throughout the episode.

Here's a reminder for Tip # 4 - editing is your friend. Knowing that you can edit the conversation later allows you to relax during the interview. If a guest goes off-topic, no worries, you can cut it out. Just be cautious not to over-edit, as you still want the conversation to feel natural and authentic.

Last but not least, Tip #5 - embrace the power of silence. Pauses in the conversation can add comedic, emotional, or dramatic impact. They pull your listeners in and keep them engaged. Don't be afraid of a little dead air; it can work wonders.

By mastering these interviewing best practices, you'll create a more powerful listening experience and turn your audience into loyal fans who can't wait to share your show with others.

If you're hungry for more interview techniques, check out my episode binge list on Podcast Interview Skills right here: https://podcastperformancecoach.com/power-binge-guide-podcast-interview-skills/

And if you're looking to transform your podcast into a marketing machine for your business, explore my coaching packages at PodcastPerformanceCoach.com.

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