20 Key Tips and Techniques for Effective One-on-One Interviews

One-on-one interviews are a powerful way to learn about a person’s experiences, abilities, and viewpoints. Whether you are a hiring manager, journalist, or researcher, these focused conversations offer a chance to explore someone’s background and personality on a deeper level. By asking the right questions and showing genuine interest, you can uncover stories or details that might not surface in a group setting.

However, success in this type of interview depends on solid planning, strong communication, and a comfortable atmosphere. This guide shares 20 practical tips to help you prepare for each session, build a connection with your guest, and gather meaningful insights. With the right approach, you can guide the discussion in a way that benefits both you and the person you’re speaking with.

Preparation Is Key

1. Research Thoroughly

Learn as much as you can about the person before you meet. Check reliable sources for their professional background, personal interests, and notable work. This approach shows respect for their time and helps you craft questions that go beyond the basics. It also makes the interview more engaging, since the other person will sense your genuine curiosity.

2. Define Your Goals

Decide what you want to gain from the interview. Are you interested in the individual’s career growth, skills, or personal viewpoints? A clear purpose shapes your questions and helps you stay on track. Jot down your top objectives and refer back to them if the conversation starts to wander.

3. Prepare Open-Ended Questions

Draft prompts that encourage complete responses rather than simple “yes” or “no” answers. For instance, you might ask, “What drew you to your current role?” instead of “Do you like your current role?” Open-ended questions invite the interviewee to share details, insights, and feelings you might otherwise miss.

4. Plan the Logistics

Pick a setting that promotes clear communication. In person, choose a calm spot with minimal noise or interruptions. Online, test your equipment ahead of time to avoid technical issues. Make sure you agree on the best time and format with your guest. A smooth setup reduces distractions and keeps everyone focused on the discussion.

Building Rapport

5. Start with Small Talk

Begin the conversation with brief, light remarks to help the other person relax. Mention a current event or something positive you’ve noticed about their work. This friendly opening sets the tone and paves the way for deeper discussion.

6. Show Genuine Interest

Pay close attention when the other person speaks. Nodding, smiling, or making small verbal comments can encourage them to keep talking. If you show honest enthusiasm for their story or expertise, they are more likely to speak freely and share valuable information.

7. Maintain Professionalism

Striking the right balance between warmth and formality can make the experience pleasant for both parties. Keep your comments respectful and avoid overly personal topics or jokes. A polite yet welcoming manner sends the message that you value their comfort and time.

During the Interview

8. Be an Active Listener

Good listening is about more than hearing words. Watch the other person’s facial expressions and gestures to pick up on how they feel. React with brief phrases like “I see” or “That’s helpful” to show you’re following along. This skill builds trust and helps you catch subtle cues you can explore further.

9. Use Silence Effectively

Short pauses in conversation can feel awkward, but they often encourage the interviewee to think more deeply. Instead of jumping in immediately when there’s a quiet moment, give them a chance to add extra details or clarify their thoughts. This brief waiting period can lead to richer responses.

10. Ask Follow-Up Questions

If a comment sparks your curiosity, ask for more details. Questions such as “Could you explain what you meant by that?” or “How did that experience change your approach?” show you’re engaged and help you learn even more. Often, these spontaneous questions reveal insights that prepared questions might miss.

11. Stay Flexible

Although you have goals, be ready to adjust as the conversation moves along. Sometimes an unexpected topic can lead to a helpful discussion. Use your judgment to decide if you should follow that path or guide the conversation back to your main objectives.

12. Clarify When Needed

If you’re unsure about something that was said, politely ask the person to restate or expand on it. This step prevents confusion and ensures you fully understand their points. Repeat their words back in your own way if you need to confirm accuracy.

13. Avoid Leading Questions

Keep your wording neutral so you don’t push the person toward a specific answer. Instead of saying, “Don’t you think your last project was excellent?” you might ask, “What is your opinion of your last project’s results?” This approach helps you capture their honest perspective.

14. Keep It Conversational

Steer the discussion in a way that feels natural rather than sticking too firmly to a script. If you sense that a topic might produce meaningful insights, explore it. A relaxed flow usually uncovers details and experiences that might not come up through rigid questioning.

Non-Verbal Communication

15. Maintain Appropriate Eye Contact

Looking at the other person while they speak helps you connect, but avoid staring. Occasional eye contact shows attentiveness without making them uneasy. If direct eye contact feels intense, shift your gaze to another point of their face.

16. Be Mindful of Your Body Language

Sit up straight without appearing stiff, and keep your arms in a relaxed position. Use light, natural gestures that match the points you’re making. These subtle cues show that you’re focused and respectful.

17. Observe Their Non-Verbal Cues

Watch their posture, facial expressions, and tone. If they look tense, you might ask if they need a break or if something is unclear. When they appear enthusiastic about a topic, it might be a sign to ask more questions in that area.

Wrapping Up

18. Summarize Key Points

Before ending, offer a brief recap of the main ideas you discussed. This step ensures both of you leave with the same understanding. It also gives the other person a chance to correct or add details you might have missed.

19. Ask If They Have Questions

Give them room to share any final thoughts or ask questions of their own. They may want to add information that didn’t come up earlier or clarify a point. This open exchange often brings the conversation to a satisfying close.

20. Explain Next Steps

Tell the person what will happen after the interview. If you need more details later, let them know how and when you might reach out. Clear guidance helps them feel informed and respected, whether you’re making a hiring decision, writing an article, or conducting research.

Final Thoughts

Conducting an effective one-on-one interview means planning carefully, treating people with respect, and listening with intention. Each conversation is a chance to learn something new about a person’s experiences and viewpoint. By using the tips in this guide—ranging from thorough background research and open-ended questions to thoughtful follow-up and clear communication—you will be prepared to lead discussions that are productive, respectful, and informative.