Conducting interviews with coaches, players, and guests might seem like a straightforward task, but the reality is far more nuanced than simply asking a few questions and getting answers.
Whether you’re preparing for a pre-game interview or a post-game wrap-up, the key to a great interview is getting quality, authentic responses from people who may not be comfortable in front of a microphone. If you’ve ever interviewed a nervous player or a coach who’s been asked the same questions a thousand times, you know how challenging it can be to get the kind of insightful answers that make a broadcast truly memorable.
So, how do you get the most out of your interviews?
The Importance of Making Your Guest Comfortable
First things first—if your guest isn’t comfortable, you won’t get the best responses. This is true whether you’re speaking with a star player who’s been in the spotlight for years or a rookie who’s still getting used to the microphone. Establishing a comfortable atmosphere is key.
Take a moment before the interview to engage in casual conversation. Ask about their day, the game, or their favourite sports moments. This can help break the ice and make the interviewee feel less like they’re under the microscope. Think of it like a warm-up before the actual game, giving your subject a chance to find their rhythm.
Effective Interview Techniques for Quality Responses
When you’re interviewing someone who’s new to being on-air, it’s important to phrase your questions in a way that helps them feel at ease. Open-ended questions that allow for more than just a “yes” or “no” answer are a great way to do this. Avoid asking questions that can be answered with a single word or a generic response. Instead, ask questions that prompt your guest to elaborate and share their unique perspective.
Here are a few techniques you can use to get more out of your interviews:
- Use Follow-Up Questions: Instead of accepting a brief answer, ask follow-up questions to dig deeper. If a player says, “We just need to keep playing hard,” ask, “What does playing hard look like for you on the field?” These questions not only show that you’re engaged, but they also give your guest the chance to explain their thinking in more detail.
- Ask about Personal Stories or Experiences: Coaches and players love talking about their personal experiences. Try asking them to share a moment that meant something special to them. “What’s been your most memorable game this season?” or “Tell us about a time when you overcame a challenge on the field.” These types of questions often lead to rich, personal stories that give the audience more insight into the guest’s character and the game.
- Give Your Guests Time to Think: Silence is golden! People sometimes rush to fill the silence, but giving your guests a moment to think about their answer can lead to much more thoughtful responses. Let them process the question and take a breath before answering. It’s better to wait a few seconds for a meaningful response than to rush into another question.
- Use “Why” and “How” Questions: These questions help to reveal motivations and thought processes. Instead of asking, “Did you have a good game?” try asking, “What did you think was the key to your success in that game?” or “How do you stay focused during high-pressure moments?”
- Be Ready to Pivot: Sometimes, the best answers come from unexpected places. If the conversation shifts in a direction that seems interesting, don’t be afraid to follow that thread. If a coach or player gives a surprising response, ask them to expand on it. “That’s interesting! Can you tell us more about that?” You never know—you might just stumble upon a goldmine.
Example Questions for Pre-Game and Post-Game Interviews
Here are some practical examples of questions you can use for your interviews, tailored to both pre-game and post-game settings:
Pre-Game Questions:
- “What’s the team’s focus heading into today’s game? Any key strategies you’re keeping in mind?”
- “Can you tell us how you’ve been preparing for this matchup?”
- “Which player should we keep an eye on today, and why?”
- “What’s the atmosphere like in the locker room before the game? What’s the vibe like among the team?”
- “What would a win today mean for your season?”
Post-Game Questions:
- “That was an intense game! What do you think made the difference in the outcome?”
- “Tell us about that play that turned things around for your team.”
- “How did your team bounce back after that tough first half? What changed in the second half?”
- “What do you think was your team’s biggest strength today?”
- “What’s the focus going forward after this game? How do you stay motivated?”
Approaching Coaches and Players for Interviews
The approach is just as important as the questions themselves. Respect is paramount—sports figures, whether they’re players or coaches, have busy schedules, and their time is valuable.
- Be Clear About What You Need: When approaching someone for an interview, be upfront about the type of questions you’ll be asking. Let them know if it’s a short pre-game spot or a more in-depth post-game discussion. Setting expectations can ease any nerves.
- Respect the Time: Be mindful of when you’re asking for an interview. Right before a big game may not be the best time for a long chat, but a post-game interview can be a great opportunity for deeper insight. Always ask if the timing is convenient for them.
- Give Them Credit: Always thank your interviewees, and when possible, highlight their contributions. Coaches and players may appreciate shout-outs or moments of recognition, especially if it’s something they worked hard to achieve.
Interview Etiquette
- Be Respectful: Always be courteous. If a coach or player isn’t in the mood for an interview, respect their decision. Don’t take it personally.
- Keep It Concise: Especially in pre-game interviews, time is often limited. Ask your questions clearly and get to the point quickly.
- Listen Actively: Don’t just think about your next question while the guest is speaking—listen to their answers and respond naturally to their comments. A good conversation flows better than a stiff Q&A.
Reflection and Key Takeaways
- Ask Open-Ended Questions: Help your guest elaborate by asking questions that can’t be answered with a simple “yes” or “no.”
- Create a Comfortable Environment: Establish rapport before the interview and give your guests time to relax.
- Follow-Up: Ask follow-up questions to dig deeper and uncover unique stories and insights.
- Be Respectful of Time: Understand the timing and context of the interview—don’t rush or pressure anyone.
Do you have a go-to interview question or technique that always seems to work? The key to a great interview is not just about asking the right questions—it’s about creating an environment where your guests feel comfortable enough to open up and share their stories. A good interview can make your broadcast stand out and connect with the audience on a deeper level.