Sharon Housley from FeedForAll has put together a list of top tips for preparing and conducting audio interviews which are designed to help podcasters improve the quality and listenability of their recordings.
These include:
1. Prepare questions in advance
2. Research Interview subject
3. Confirm pronunciation of the interviewee's name
4. Explain the scope of the interview before you start
5. Explain what hardware and software you will be using to conduct and record the interview
6. Make a test recording before you start to check recording levels and quality!
7. Relax your guest by chatting for a minute or so before you start the interview proper
8. Ask questions that don't require yes/no answers and encourage your interviewee to elaborate on their responses by giving examples
9. Prior to the interview, give your interviewee some tips on techniques such as not to speak too quickly, try and keep the microphone a consistent distance from their mouth and repeat something they've said if they've made a mistake as this can be edited out in the mix
10. Remember that you are the interviewer and that you need to lead the conversation and know when to change topic or interrupt your interviewee
11. Give a cue so that your interviewee knows when the conversation is coming to a close
12. Thank the interviewee when you've finished and provide a link to where listeners can find out more
Here are some more tips from Eddie Matthews from Expert Village on interviewing and connecting with your audience.
Have a look at 20 ideas for a great podcast and Tips for a successful school podcast for some more sound advice too.
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