Three Simple Questions to Keep Your Interviews Flowing Smoothly
Interviews can be a thrilling rollercoaster ride, but even the most seasoned hosts can occasionally find themselves temporarily losing focus. Whether it’s a technical hiccup, a quick glance at notes, or simply a momentary lapse in concentration, these brief distractions can disrupt the flow of an interview.
But fear not, my fellow content creators! I’ve got three powerful questions up my sleeve that can swiftly steer the conversation back on track, without missing a beat or letting your guest catch on to your momentary lapse.
Can You Elaborate on That?
This seemingly simple question packs a punch when it comes to regaining your footing mid-interview.
By asking your guest to elaborate on something they’ve just said, you not only buy yourself some time to refocus but also provide valuable context for your listeners.
Variations like “I’m not quite sure I understand, can you elaborate on that a bit?” or “Can you expand on that point for my understanding?” subtly imply that you’ve been listening attentively, while simultaneously prompting your guest to revisit and expound upon their previous statements.
This approach has a dual benefit: it allows you, as the host, to catch up on any information you may have missed, and it provides your audience with a deeper dive into the topic at hand.
Can You Give an Example?
Asking for an example is a surefire way to ground abstract concepts in real-world scenarios, making them more tangible and relatable for your listeners. This question not only enriches the conversation but also reinforces the notion that you’re not an expert in your guest’s field.
By inquiring about specific examples, you open the door for your guest to share their personal experiences or illustrate their points with concrete situations. This not only adds color and depth to the discussion but also positions you as an engaging interviewer who is genuinely curious about their expertise.
Whether it’s an example from your guest’s professional life or a hypothetical scenario that brings their point to life, this simple question can elevate your interview to new heights of engagement and understanding.
Can You Explain What This Means?
In the realm of specialized industries, jargon and abbreviations can sometimes leave even the most attentive listener feeling lost. That’s where the question “Can you explain what this means?” comes to the rescue.
By requesting clarification on specific terms or phrases, you not only ensure that you and your audience are on the same page but also open the door for your guest to break down complex concepts in a more accessible way.
But the power of this question extends beyond just decoding industry lingo. You can also leverage it to seek a higher-level explanation, such as “Can you explain what this means for the industry?” or “What does this mean for society as a whole?”
By prompting your guest to unpack the broader implications of their expertise, you create a more comprehensive and thought-provoking discussion that resonates with a wider audience.
The Bonus Tip: Keyword Notes for Smooth Segues
Now, for the pièce de résistance – a bonus tip that will elevate your interview game to new heights. Instead of furiously scribbling down every word your guest utters, focus on jotting down keywords or phrases that pique your interest or spark potential follow-up questions.
This approach not only frees you up to actively listen and engage with your guest but also provides you with a handy reference point for seamless transitions and segues throughout the interview.
When you find yourself needing to shift gears or revisit a previous point, simply glance at your keyword notes and smoothly introduce the new direction with a phrase like, “You mentioned [keyword] earlier, and I wanted to circle back to that and ask you to elaborate further.”
Not only does this technique demonstrate your attentiveness as a host, but it also creates a cohesive and well-structured interview that flows naturally from one topic to the next.
Wrapping It Up
Conducting engaging interviews is an art form, and having a few trusty techniques in your arsenal can mean the difference between a disjointed conversation and a seamless, captivating experience for your audience.
By mastering the art of asking for elaboration, examples, and explanations, you’ll not only maintain a smooth flow but also foster a deeper understanding of the topics at hand. And with the added bonus of keyword note-taking, you’ll have a secret weapon for effortless segues and transitions.
So, the next time you find yourself momentarily adrift during an interview, remember these three powerful questions and the keyword note-taking technique.
Your guests – and your audience – will thank you for the engaging, insightful, and cohesive discussions that result.
