How to Prepare for an Author Interview by Pat Rullo
Don’t. The End.
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If I stop here, it will be the shortest blog post ever. Blogatini!
Why do I say don’t prepare for an author interview? I have hosted hundreds and hundreds of interviews, not only for this website but also for my terrestrial radio programs. I have found that the best conversations are precisely that – conversations.
It is safe to assume that an author knows more about their book than I do. They understand why they wrote it, how they wrote it, and what the book is about. The relationship with their book may be more intimate than any other. At this point, they are the experts – not me.
On the other hand, I must be very well prepared to guide the conversation and fill in any possible gaps. As a host, I research ahead of time to make the guest look good and feel good. Trick questions are not on my list. A skilled host does not allow their guest to flounder.
When a guest asks for questions and prepares before the interview, it no longer feels like a conversation but rather an interrogation. Question – Answer – Question – Answer. It makes me uncomfortable to listen to someone read canned answers. It leaves no room for any real responses. I hesitate to comment or go ‘off script’ lest I throw them off. It delivers a bumpy ride for listeners too.
I can’t speak for all hosts, but when you interview with me, please know you can throw your concerns in the back seat. You don’t need to worry about preparing. So take off that mental seatbelt. As a seasoned driver, I guarantee a safe and fun ride. And when we arrive at the end, you will be pleased with the trip.
Sometimes preparation just gets in the way.
PR
