How to Conduct Engaging Virtual Interviews

In today's interconnected world, conducting interviews has become a valuable skill for capturing unique insights and stories. With the shift towards online meetings, it is essential to adapt best practices and optimized interview techniques to the digital realm. Whether you're a journalist, researcher, or simply curious about someone's experiences, this guide will equip you with the tools and techniques to conduct captivating and fruitful interviews in virtual settings.

1. Research and Prepare: Setting the Stage

Before the virtual interview begins, invest time in researching your interviewee and the topic at hand. Familiarize yourself with their background, accomplishments, and unique perspectives. This not only demonstrates your professionalism but also enables you to ask informed questions that spark engaging conversations.

2. Establish a Connection: Building Rapport

Creating a personal connection is vital, even in a virtual environment. Begin the interview with a warm introduction and a friendly tone. Start with a casual icebreaker question to put the interviewee at ease and establish a comfortable atmosphere. Building rapport allows for more open and genuine responses.

3. Active Listening: The Key to Uncovering Insights

During the interview, practice active listening to truly understand and engage with the interviewee's responses. Give your undivided attention, maintain eye contact, and show genuine interest through non-verbal cues. By actively listening, you not only encourage the interviewee to share more but also gain deeper insights into their experiences.

4. Craft Open-Ended Questions: Unlocking Rich Responses

To delve into the interviewee's thoughts and experiences, ask open-ended questions that invite detailed and reflective responses. Avoid simple "yes" or "no" queries and instead encourage the interviewee to share their perspectives, stories, and emotions. Open-ended questions create space for meaningful conversations and allow for unexpected discoveries.

5. Follow the Conversation's Flow: Embrace Flexibility

While it's essential to have a general structure in mind, be open to following the natural flow of the conversation. Allow the interviewee's answers to guide the direction of the discussion. Sometimes the most valuable insights emerge from unexpected tangents or unexplored topics. Embrace spontaneity and adapt your questions accordingly.

6. Dive Deeper with Probing Questions: Uncover Hidden Gems

When an opportunity arises, use probing questions to encourage the interviewee to elaborate on their responses. Probing questions delve beneath the surface, unveiling deeper thoughts, motivations, and personal experiences. By gently encouraging the interviewee to share more, you may uncover valuable insights that were previously unexplored.

7. Conclude with Gratitude and Reflection: Leaving a Lasting Impression

As the interview draws to a close, summarize the key points discussed and express your gratitude for the interviewee's time and insights. Allow them to provide any final thoughts or reflections. Ending on a positive and appreciative note strengthens the rapport and leaves a lasting impression.

       8. Take Notes

Taking notes is critical during the conversation, to help you as the interviewer guide the to points of discussion you want to focus on. Also, leverage technology like the Beulr online meeting notetaker to get the transcript after the call, and make sure no detail is missed in your follow up.

Mastering the art of conducting engaging online interviews requires a combination of research, active listening, thoughtful questioning, flexibility, and genuine connection. By honing these skills, you can create meaningful and insightful conversations that captivate both you and your interviewee. So, step into the virtual realm, embrace the opportunities it offers, and let the magic of online interviewing unfold.

To learn more about Beulr, and to try out our AI powered virtual meeting recording, transcription, and insight generation product, please visit our homepage at https://www.beulr.com/. Thanks again!