Someone recently asked me for some tips on the “Art of the Interview.”
From a journalistic perspective, I have led all-day workshops on the topic and feel like I barely scratch the surface. So my ambition in this small space will be confined to one key principle that is as elementary as it is overlooked these days: the in-person Q & A.
That’s right–I am talking about that old-fashioned, quaint practice of actually being with the person you are interviewing.
In an era where phone calls seem to be viewed as “going the extra mile,” I realize that it may seem revolutionary to recommend you go to all the trouble of being in the same physical space as the person with whom you are talking. Especially if it means getting into some mode of transportation and traveling more than a few miles to make it happen.
But it’s a really, really powerful thing–whether you are a journalist chasing down a story, a publicist working on crafting a news release or developing a communications plan, or anyone else seeking to foster a relationship. After all, success (or failure) hinges largely on our ability to develop trust in our relationships.
And that’s pretty hard to accomplish when all you’ve got to work with are words on a screen or a voice on the other end of a phone.
I’ve written extensively on this topic, so if you are interested in more tips, drop me a line at Matt@InsideEdgePR.com
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To Optimize Your Interview: Prepare, Pounce
Writing Biographies & Profiles: Navigating Around the Self-Modesty Mask
