Learning how to be interviewed by learning to be the interviewer

Interviews – a word that often elicits a mix of excitement, anxiety, and uncertainty (unless you are a tad weird like me who loves being interviewed).

Whether it's a job interview, a media appearance, or even a podcast feature, being in the hot seat can feel like facing a fierce dragon. But what if I told you there's a secret technique that can not only make interviews a breeze but also empower you with valuable life skills? Get ready to dive into the world of "learning to be the interviewer" to master the art of being interviewed!

The magic of role reversal

Think about it: when you're being interviewed, you're essentially the star of the show. But what if you could also be the director, producer, and scriptwriter? This is where the magic of role reversal comes in. By stepping into the shoes of the interviewer, you not only gain insights into the process but also develop a unique set of skills that can boost your confidence and charisma.

Step 1: Be the curious cat

As the interviewer, your primary role is to be curious – ask questions that intrigue and engage. Apply this principle to your own interviews: anticipate the questions that might come your way and craft compelling answers. The more curious you are about your own story, the better you'll be at sharing it.

Step 2: Find the spark

Every great interview has a spark, that moment when both parties connect on a deeper level. As the interviewer, your task is to find that spark by understanding your subject's passions, motivations, and stories. When it's your turn to be interviewed, remember to share not only your achievements but also the stories behind them. This helps create a genuine connection with your audience.

Step 3: Storytelling mastery

A skilled interviewer knows how to extract captivating stories from their subject. Apply this skill to your interviews by telling your stories in a way that captivates your audience. Weave in emotions, challenges, and resolutions – this not only makes your interviews more engaging but also leaves a lasting impression.

Step 4: Embrace the pause

Silence can be a powerful tool in an interview. As the interviewer, you learn to embrace the pause, allowing your subject to gather their thoughts and share deeper insights. When it's your turn to be interviewed, don't be afraid of a moment of silence. It gives you time to organise your thoughts and deliver a well-crafted response.

Step 5: Confidence through preparation

Preparation is the backbone of a successful interview. As the interviewer, you research your subject, understand their background, and frame questions accordingly. Apply this principle to your own interviews – research the organisation, practice your answers, and walk in with confidence. The more prepared you are, the more at ease you'll feel.

Step 6: The power of redirecting

Sometimes, interviews can take unexpected turns. Skilled interviewers know how to redirect the conversation back on track without making the subject uncomfortable. When you're being interviewed and faced with a curveball question, take a page from the interviewer's playbook: gracefully redirect to a topic you're more comfortable discussing.

Step 7: Active listening

As the interviewer, you hone your active listening skills to pick up on nuances, emotions, and unspoken cues. When you're in the hot seat, leverage this skill by truly listening to the questions. Don't just jump into answering – take a moment to understand the essence of the question before formulating your response.

Step 8: Humour and authenticity

A touch of humour can lighten the interview atmosphere. As the interviewer, you learn to inject humour into conversations without overshadowing the content. When it's your turn to be interviewed, embrace your authentic self and don't shy away from sharing light-hearted anecdotes. Authenticity and humour create relatability, making your interviews memorable.

Step 9: Handling pressure

Interviewers often handle high-pressure situations with finesse. Apply this to your own interviews by reframing pressure as excitement. Embrace the adrenaline rush, focus on your preparedness, and channel your nervous energy into enthusiasm.

Step 10: Continuous improvement

Even the best interviewers seek opportunities to improve. Apply this mindset to your own interviews by seeking feedback and reflecting on your performance. Every interview is a chance to learn and grow, whether you're in the interviewer's chair or the interviewee's.

The ripple effect: Life beyond interviews

The beauty of learning to be the interviewer is that its benefits extend far beyond interview scenarios. By mastering these skills, you enhance your communication, empathy, and storytelling abilities. You become more confident in sharing your ideas, more attuned to connecting with others, and more comfortable navigating unpredictable situations.

So, as you embark on this journey of role reversal, remember that every time you step into the interviewer's shoes, you're not just preparing for an interview – you're investing in your personal growth and development.

Ready to dive in?

Whether you're aiming to ace that job interview, shine in the media spotlight, or simply enhance your communication prowess, we can work together to empower you with practical skills and a dash of light-heartedness. Together, we'll embark on a journey that not only revolutionises your interview skills but also empowers you to excel in various aspects of your life.

Don't let interviews intimidate you – let's turn the tables and make them your playground.