Tips for conducting podcast interviews remotely
The Covid-19 pandemic has affected almost everything that has been done as a professional, and the interview process is no exception. Many speakers and other business professionals have opted for virtual events and interviews since the closure occurred in early 2020. With the stay-at-home command, remote interviews have become more popular, as any type of interview is easy to do. interview regardless of location or distance.
Platforms for conducting distance interviews
There are several platforms that you can use to conduct remote interviews. It is always advisable to use the well-known and popular ones like Zoom, Skype, Google Duo, Viber and WhatsApp. This is to ensure that the interviewee has easy access to connect with the interviewer. Better yet, a notification or message can be sent to the interviewee a few days before the interview date informing him of the type of virtual platform to be used. This ensures that the interviewee can get to the video app (if they don’t already have it) and become familiar with the user interface.
Criteria for a quality remote interview
The Covid-19 pandemic has forced more people to work and perform various activities from home, including conducting podcast interviews. Professionals who rarely do remote interviews find them to be a popular trend. While interviewers and interviewees may have participated in some online meetings, not everyone knows how a virtual interview is conducted. Preparation is required to conduct a quality remote interview. So as an interviewer, it is essential to set expectations with your guest about the details of the interview. Let them know who will be making the call, what time it should be, what platform you will be using, etc. Disclosing the details of the virtual meeting to the interviewee will reassure them to be at their best for the interview.
Therefore, below are some of the criteria to ensure a smooth remote interview process.
1. Check your devices
You should run a quick test on the devices that you will be using for the interview, be it your phone, laptop, or desktop computer. You would not speak highly of your competition if you discover that your device’s microphone or speaker is not working during the interview. Check the resolution of the camera and if it is not high enough, use another device that has a better resolution so that those on the other side can see it clearly. You should run this quick system check on your devices before your scheduled interview time.
2. Suitable background
Make sure your background is attractive. Don’t use a loud, harsh, or unprofessional background that shows off your kitchen, bathroom, or bedroom. You can use a simple background (some video apps allow you to do this). Make sure your surroundings are free from distractions from other people working or walking.
Turn off phone chats and alert tones during the interview. You can leave a note on the door to indicate that you are not available or in an interview. Do not conduct a remote interview in a high traffic area. Use a quiet place, as this will help you focus.
3. Look professional
Even if you are at home, dress as if you were conducting an in-person interview. If you are the interviewee, don’t wear casual attire, dress to impress your interviewees. It will leave a positive impression on your attitude and professionalism in the interview.
Four. Pay close attention to the tone of your voice and facial expressions.
Speak clearly and fluently. Also, make sure your voice is calm. Smile and laugh at the right time, just like you would in person. This will show the person on the other end that you are involved in the conversation. When you speak, always look at the camera.
5. Have a strong close
When the interview is over, you, as the interviewer, should inform your guest of the estimated date your interview will be published. Regarding my podcast, for example, I tend to do interviews two weeks before the publication date. This allows time to edit and develop social media graphics without the undue pressure of an impending deadline. Your guests will appreciate knowing what the estimated dates are for their interview to be shared with the world.
You, as the interviewee, should also ask the questions you have in mind regarding your interview. Make sure to post the links to your offers, website, etc. that the host can insert into the program notes.
Regardless of whether you are conducting the interview or are being interviewed, be sure to appreciate the time you spent together.
7. Where to host the audio or video files of your interview
You can record your interview and post the recorded version on popular hosting sites. If the version of the interview you want to post is a video, you can use YouTube or Vimeo. And in case they are audio-only formats, you can make use of Apple podcast (iTunes), Sound Cloud, Libsyn, Smart podcast player, Podbean, and many more audio hosting sites that will allow you to reach more audiences.
conclusion
Interviews are a great way to connect with other influencers, increase your experience status (both when conducting interviews and being interviewed), and allow you to continue networking, even during a pandemic.