How-to interview someone by TV Presenter, Hayley Palmer

TV Presenter Hayley Palmer shares some helpful advice on how to successfully interview someone.

How-to interview someone by TV Presenter, Hayley Palmer

From Desk job to dream job - I’m living proof that you can do your dream job with the right amount of determination and action. 

I’ve been lucky enough to have some great guests on my two weekly Sky music Shows, including Kimberly Wyatt, Anton Du Beke, Brian Conley, Faye Tozer, Lady Colin Campbell, & Debbie McGee.

Here are my tips on how to interview, which I’ve learnt over the last couple of years on my presenting journey. 

Research 

It’s really important to do your research on your guest. I always try and find out a couple of things that I think the guest may not have been asked before. I do have a cue card to jot down certain bits of information, but I think it’s more important to keep the conversation flowing and natural rather than looking down at your cue card too much.

Mirroring 

Even before the interview, take the time to observe the situation with your guest. If they’re super chilled and relaxed, then it’s important to go with that vibe. Equally, if someone’s happy and got lots of energy, then I match that too. You want to make the guest feel as comfortable as possible, sometimes they could be nervous, or you have no idea of their situation, it’s important to assess and act accordingly.

The more relaxed, the better

I always say that my interviews are always like a ‘chat in a pub’ rather than super strict question and answer time. The more relaxed you are, the more relaxed your guest will be. You’ll develop a way that works for you; everyone has their unique personality and style.

Organisation is key 

Whenever my interview is, I’ll start prepping the studio an hour before to do a tech check. It may seem simple and something you can leave until the last minute, but preparation is KEY.

Adopt a positive mindset 

If you believe it’s going to be a great interview, then it will be. It’s Important to go in feeling confident with what you have researched and prepared.

Have fun!

All of this aside, if you love talking and people, then you’re on the right track. Having fun with it is just as important as all of the above. 

Tune in to ‘At Home with Hayley’ on Wednesday, 7 pm, and ‘Saturday night with Hayley Palmer’ Saturdays at 9 pm, on SKY TV 365, FREESAT 516, CONNECTED FREEVIEW 264, for more details, go to hayleypalmer-presenter.com.

Header Image Credit: Hayley Palmer

Author

Saskia Calliste

Saskia Calliste Voice Team

Saskia is the Deputy Editor of Voice and has worked on campaigns such as International Women’s Day, Black History Month, and Anti-Bullying Week. Outside of Voice, Saskia is a published author (Hairvolution) and has guest featured in various other publications (The Women Writers’ Handbook/ Cosmopolitan/ The Highlight). She has a BA in Creative Writing and Journalism and an MA in Publishing. She is a mentor for Women of the World Global, has guest lectured at the University of Roehampton and has led seminars/panel talks on Race, Equality and Diversity. She was a 2022 Guest Judge for Dave (TV Channel) in search of the 'Joke of the Fringe'. She is 27-years-old, based in London, and loves to cook and explore new places in her spare time.

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