Interview Someone Well

A good interview is not a checklist of questions. It is a conversation with a purpose.

1. Know Why You Are Interviewing

What are you trying to understand, preserve, explain, or share?

2. Prepare a Few Strong Questions

Use open questions that invite stories, explanations, examples, and reflection. Do not write twenty questions you are determined to ask no matter what.

3. Listen for Follow-Ups

Try: “You mentioned ________. Can you tell me more about that?”

4. Treat the Person With Care

• Ask permission before recording.
• Use names and details accurately.
• Do not pressure someone to discuss something they do not want to discuss.
• Represent their words fairly when you share the interview.

5. Close Well

Ask: “Is there anything I should have asked that I didn’t?” Then thank the person.

Try It

You are interviewing someone about a job, hobby, community experience, or important memory. Write three strong opening questions and one possible follow-up.

💡 Funky Tip

The interview gets better when you stop trying to sound impressive and start being genuinely curious.

I matter.

Your questions matter. The person trusting you with their story matters too.

🎒 Take It With You

Prepare → ask → listen → follow up → represent responsibly → thank.