Intervogs Blog

Interviews can be tightrope-walking—whether you’re interviewing a job applicant, recording a podcast, or chasing down an interview for an article. But come on, they don’t have to be so stressful. With some preparation and a calm demeanor, you can turn any interview into a warm, easy conversation that gets everyone pumped. Here’s my working advice on how to make interviews less of an exam and more of an amazing catch-up with a mate.

1. Know Who You’re Chatting With
   Walking in clueless is a total rookie move. Spend some time getting the lowdown on your interviewee. For a job interview, dive into their resume and get a feel for what the role’s about. For a podcast or article, creep on their socials (in a chill way), check their latest projects, or watch an old interview. Come up with questions that show you’ve done your digging—not just stuff you could’ve Googled in two seconds. It’s like prepping for a first date; it shows you’re into it and sets the stage for a real talk.
2. Ask Questions That Get Them Talking
   Good questions are like magic—they unlock awesome stories. Go for ones that let them spill, like, “What’s a moment in your career that still gives you goosebumps?” or “How’d you pull off that wild project?” Skip the yes/no duds unless you’re just double-checking something. Have a rough game plan for your questions, but don’t cling to your list like it’s a life raft—if they drop something juicy, dive in. Mix in questions that make them think back or dream big, like a fun “what if” to keep things fresh. It’s like tossing out invites for them to steal the show.
3. Make It Feel Cozy
   Nobody’s gonna open up if they’re stressing out. Kick things off with something light, like, “How’s your day going?” or a quick shout-out to something cool you learned about them. Keep your voice warm, like you’re chatting over tacos. Smile, nod, look them in the eye (yep, even on Zoom). If you’re online, make sure your Wi-Fi’s not sketchy, your mic’s crystal, and your lighting doesn’t make you look like you’re in a horror flick. When they’re comfy, they’ll dish out the good stuff.
4. Listen Like You Mean It
   Real talk: listening is where the gold’s at. Don’t just sit there plotting your next move—soak up what they’re saying. If they drop something wild, lean in with a “No way, tell me more!” or “How’d that hit you?” It’s like following a treasure map they’re sketching out. Hold off on jumping in, even if you’re buzzing to talk. You’ll catch little nuggets you’d miss if you’re too busy thinking ahead.
5. Roll With Their Vibe
   An interview’s not a script—it’s a vibe. If they wander into a random but awesome story, don’t drag them back to your plan. Chase that spark! Skip questions they’ve already covered in their own way, and throw in new ones if their energy’s giving you ideas. Watch their mood—push a bit when they’re hyped, but ease up if they seem shaky. It’s like jamming with a band: stay loose and vibe with their rhythm.
6. Don’t Let Time Sneak Up
   Nobody likes a rushed wrap-up or a chat that feels like it’ll never end. Plan your big questions to fit the time—maybe 5-7 for a 30-minute hang. Hit the must-asks early in case things get cut short. If you’re running low on time, say something like, “We’re almost done—cool if we sneak in one more?” It’s a small move that shows you’re not trying to hijack their day.
7. Wrap It Up With Heart
   End on a high with a question that feels like a mic-drop, like, “What’s something you wish more people got about your work?” or “What’s the best advice you’d give someone just starting out?” Then, thank them like you mean it—let them know their stories totally made your day. If there’s a next step, like sending a follow-up or posting the chat, lay it out so they’re not left guessing. A great goodbye’s like a warm high-five—it leaves them pumped.
8. Scribble Notes, Hit Record
   Always check if it’s cool to record (it’s just good manners), then hit that button. It’s a lifesaver for nailing exact quotes, but don’t bet everything on it—tech can be a jerk and crash. Jot down quick notes for big moments, killer lines, or when their face lights up talking about something. It keeps you in the zone and saves you if the recording tanks. If you’re writing a story, mark time stamps for the best bits so you can zip right to them later. It’s like snapping a quick pic of the highlights.
9. Keep It Real and Fair
   Be straight-up about what this chat’s for and how you’ll use their words. If it’s for a blog or article, let them know if it’s all out there or just for background. If they’re diving into something heavy, give them a sec to rephrase or pull back if they want. When you’re editing, don’t twist their words into something they didn’t mean. It’s all about keeping it honest—don’t mess with their trust.
10. Learn From Every Hang
    When it’s done, take a minute to think: What was awesome? What flopped? Did you miss a chance to dig deeper? If it feels right, ask them how it went or swap notes with a buddy. Every interview’s a shot to get better, like practicing a killer guitar riff. Keep tweaking your style, and you’ll be running these chats like a total pro.
    With some prep, a ton of listening, and a go-with-the-flow attitude, you can make any interview feel like a great hangout. So grab your questions, bring your curiosity, and turn that next chat into something that’s straight-up awesome—for both of you.

Tags: article interview, Crush Your Next Interview, job applicant, podcast

Posted in Interviews