Dave Kernodle is an experienced interviewer. Prior to joining Spiracle Media, he spent over 10 years as a television journalist. So when it comes to interviewing someone on camera, he has a ton of valuable experience and understands how to make someone feel comfortable. Comfort is critical because it allows you to engage in a conversation like you’ve known each other for years.
In this video, David shares his 4 tips to success when it comes to interviewing a subject on camera.
Help the Interviewee Feel Comfortable
This is very important, if your interviewee isn’t comfortable in front of the camera then you’ve got to help them feel comfortable. The key to a successful interview is having a conversation and getting the answers you want from the interviewee. You’ve got to begin with making your subject feel comfortable in this new environment. Not many people are used to being in front of the camera.
Come to the Interview Prepared
Be prepared when coming into the interview. Do all your research on the person you’re interviewing beforehand. If you’re well prepared, this will give you an opportunity to have more of a conversation and less of a Q&A with the person in front of the camera.
Listen and Follow up
Listen, listen, listen. If you’re not listening to the person you’re interviewing, you could miss a critical piece of the story that you can ultimately expand on. Embrace the unexpected and run with it. When you follow up with their answers, it shows the person you’re interviewing that you are really listening and care about their answer or story they’re telling.
Monitor Your Body Language
This point is just as important for the interviewer as it is for the interviewee. When your body language is coming off stiff and scripted in asking questions, the interviewee may mimic how you are. So if you want your subject to feel comfortable, you have to set an example. Ask the questions with confidence and engage with your subject through your body language.
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