Why Good Interviewing Matters in Video Production
A strong interview can transform video content. Skilled interviewers draw out authentic stories that connect with viewers and keep them watching. Poor ones lead to flat, guarded responses that lose attention quickly.
The difference comes down to rapport and technique. Good interviewing builds trust, encourages openness, and uncovers insights that scripted content rarely achieves. This guide covers why it matters, key skills, common pitfalls, and practical tips to improve results in any video project.
The Impact of Skilled Interviewing
Interviewing shapes the entire narrative. When done well, it creates emotional connection and credibility. Viewers respond to genuine voices sharing real experiences.
Strong rapport reduces stress for subjects, leading to more open answers. Active listening and thoughtful questions guide conversations naturally, revealing depth that elevates the final piece.
Authentic interviews boost engagement. Viewers stay longer when they feel the human element, whether in documentaries, corporate videos, or marketing content.
Essential Skills for Effective Interviewing
Building strong interviews starts with a few core abilities. These skills help create natural, flowing conversations that feel genuine and draw out the best from subjects.
Certain abilities separate average interviewers from excellent ones:
Active listening: Focus fully on responses without planning the next question. This shows respect and encourages subjects to open up more freely, leading to richer, unexpected insights.
Emotional intelligence: Read body language and tone to adjust approach. Recognising discomfort or enthusiasm allows gentle redirection or deeper exploration, building trust and keeping the conversation comfortable.
Curiosity: Ask follow-ups that dig deeper naturally. Genuine interest sparks detailed stories and reveals layers that scripted questions miss, making the final content far more compelling.
Neutrality: Avoid leading questions that bias answers. Staying impartial ensures authentic responses, preserving credibility and letting the subject's true voice shine through.
Flexibility: Adapt to the subject's energy and direction. Going with the flow rather than forcing an agenda captures spontaneous moments that often become the most memorable parts of the interview.
Mastering these skills takes practice, but they consistently produce more engaging and authentic results.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Many interviews fall flat due to avoidable issues. Recognising these early helps create smoother, more authentic results.
Common pitfalls include:
Reading from a rigid script limits natural flow
Leading questions push desired answers rather than truth
Poor energy or monotone delivery drains enthusiasm
Interrupting or rushing silences cuts off thoughtful responses
Lack of preparation leaves gaps in context
Another frequent challenge is missing signs of discomfort in the subject. Watch for cues like fidgeting, avoiding eye contact, short answers, or tense body language. When these appear, pause and offer support. Suggest a quick break, water, or a stretch. A simple "Would you like a moment or some water?" rebuilds comfort and trust, leading to more open responses later.
It should be obvious, but always ensure the film crew is fully set up before bringing in the subject. Rushing lighting, audio checks, or camera positioning while the interviewee waits feels unprofessional and can create unnecessary tension. A calm, prepared environment sets a positive tone from the start.
Counter these by preparing thoroughly while staying open. Build comfort with small talk before diving in. Allow pauses for reflection.
Types of Questions That Work Best
Choosing the right question style keeps conversations balanced and productive. A good mix encourages detail while maintaining momentum.
Different question styles serve specific purposes. Use a mix for balanced conversations:
| Type | Example | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Open-ended | "What inspired you to start this?" | Encourages storytelling and detail |
| Follow-up | "Can you tell me more about that?" | Uncovers deeper insights |
| Emotional | "How did that experience feel?" | Builds connection and authenticity |
| Neutral | "What happened next?" | Avoids bias for honest responses |
| Probing | "Can you expand on that point?" | Reveals hidden layers |
| Closing | "Anything else you'd like to add?" | Captures final thoughts |
Professional Resources and Recommended Reading
Expanding knowledge with trusted resources sharpens interviewing technique over time.
These trusted books offer deeper insight into interviewing techniques:
"The Art of the Interview" by Lawrence Grobel – Practical lessons from high-profile conversations.
"Talk to Me" by Dean Nelson – Step-by-step guide to asking better questions.
"Emotional Intelligence" by Daniel Goleman – Understanding emotions for stronger rapport.
"Clean Language" by Wendy Sullivan and Judy Rees – Techniques for clearer communication.
"You Can't Make This Stuff Up" by Lee Gutkind – Turning real stories into compelling narratives.
Below is a quick reference for stronger interviewing:
| Area | Tip | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Preparation | Research subject thoroughly | Builds confidence and context |
| Rapport | Start with light conversation | Creates comfort and trust |
| Listening | Focus fully, avoid interrupting | Encourages open responses |
| Questions | Mix open-ended and follow-up | Uncovers authentic stories |
| Review | Watch back for improvements | Sharpens skills over time |
