10 tips for a successful virtual podcast interview
Doing a podcast interview from your computer doesn’t need to be complicated.
We have done hundreds of them before and there’s only one thing that you need to know: PREPARATION IS KEY. With that in mind, print this foolproof checklist to have a successful interview.
Plug in the right equipment
Using an external microphone and headphones will drastically reduce echo and delay during the conversation.
Check your internet speed
Do a quick speed-test using this Google button. Disconnect electronics clogging the signal if you are using Wifi (cellphones, smart TVs, Home Assistants and other electronics).
Reduce any potential sources of noise
Turn off fans.
Put your phone on silent.
Turn of computer notifications.
Warn others to stay quiet during your interview.
Take any animals out of the room.
Do your research
Your podcast is only as good as the work you put in. Research your topic or guest ahead of time, and avoid ‘flying by the seat of your pants’. Popular and successful podcasts rely on good research and production time.
Have a pre-call with your guest
Discuss anything interesting they may have been doing lately that they haven’t shared publicly as this will can give you ‘insider and exclusive’ access to content. This is a good time to test their internet connection or troubleshoot any audio or video problems.
Drastically reduce editing time
You can reduce post-production time by rehearsing your questions, taking your time to answer and asking questions that follow the natural flow of the conversation.
Be comfortable being vulnerable
It’s ok to not know an answer. You can simply say “I’m actually not sure about the answer to that but I will find out and include it in the show notes/blog post/post”.
Use the tools at your disposal
Take notes during the interview to remember key points and to speed up writing the episode’s description.
Have a cheat-sheet
Make sure you don’t forget to press ‘record’.
Write your guest’s information (forgetting their last name would be embarrassing, right?), website and titles of any of their publications.
Keep a reminder to check the time so that you don’t run out of time with your guest.
Troubleshoot
If your guest’s audio starts breaking up ask them to repeat their answer - your listeners will thank you and you’ll reduce editing time.
Additional elements to consider about podcast interviews:
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