For formal job interviews, it’s paramount to exude professionalism. Opt for a quiet, office-like setting that imparts a sense of gravity and respect. In contrast, casual podcast conversations may thrive in a relaxed ambiance, like a cosy coffee shop or even the interviewee’s home. When embarking on investigative journalism, you might choose an interview location that reinforces the narrative or evokes a certain mood, enhancing the storytelling aspect of your work.

Understanding your interview’s purpose also allows you to tailor your questions and approach to align with the setting. For instance, in a formal office interview, you might stick to traditional questions, while a podcast interview could explore more personal or offbeat topics.

Example: For a formal job interview, a quiet and professional office setting is ideal, while a casual podcast conversation might benefit from a relaxed coffee shop atmosphere.

#2 Assessing Acoustic Quality

Acoustic quality is a crucial factor in any interview setting. An environment with excessive background noise or poor sound insulation can disrupt the recording process. Evaluate the acoustics of the location to ensure clear, distortion-free audio.

Acoustic quality isn’t just a bonus; it’s an interview essential. Inadequate acoustics can disrupt the recording process, leading to poor audio quality and potential misunderstandings. Before settling on an interview location, conduct a thorough assessment of its acoustic properties.

The significance of acoustics becomes glaringly evident in settings with excessive background noise or insufficient sound insulation. A bustling cafe, a crowded park, or a room with thin walls can wreak havoc on the recording, leading to distorted, inaudible, or unpleasant audio.

In addition to considering the location’s inherent acoustics, you can also invest in soundproofing materials or portable acoustic panels. These tools can help mitigate background noise and ensure clear, distortion-free audio, even in less-than-ideal locations.

Example: Consider using a room with soundproofing or a quiet park for outdoor interviews to minimise unwanted noise.

#3 Lighting Considerations for Video Interviews

If you’re conducting video interviews, lighting plays a pivotal role. Proper lighting ensures that your subjects are well-lit and clearly visible. Choose locations with ample natural light or invest in quality lighting equipment.

For those conducting video interviews, lighting becomes a linchpin for success. Proper lighting isn’t just about aesthetics – it plays a fundamental role in ensuring your subjects are well-lit and clearly visible. This visual clarity is essential for engaging and professional video content.

Consider the role of natural light in your chosen location. A room with ample, diffused natural light can create a soft and flattering look, minimising harsh shadows and ensuring that your subjects appear their best. Alternatively, invest in quality lighting equipment, such as softboxes, ring lights, or LED panels. These tools can provide consistent and adjustable lighting, making your subjects look their best regardless of the location’s lighting conditions.

Striking the right balance between lighting and setting can elevate the overall quality of your video interviews, leaving a lasting impression on your audience.

Example: Natural light from a well-lit window can create a soft and flattering look for video interviews.

Additionally, test your equipment thoroughly before the interview. Ensure that all your devices are in working order and that you’re proficient in operating them. A glitch in your recording equipment can disrupt the interview and lead to loss of valuable content.

Check the location’s internet connectivity, especially if you plan to stream the interview live or conduct remote interviews. A stable and fast internet connection is critical for maintaining seamless communication.

Addressing these technical considerations beforehand will help you avoid unnecessary disruptions during the interview.

Example: Carry backup batteries and a mobile hotspot to address unexpected technical issues.

#6 Privacy and Confidentiality

Depending on the nature of the interview, privacy and confidentiality may be paramount. Always respect your subjects’ privacy and ensure that the location is secure.

The need for privacy and confidentiality can vary depending on the interview’s nature. In certain cases, it may be of utmost importance. Regardless of the context, always prioritise respecting your subjects’ privacy and ensuring the location’s security.

In job interviews or HR-related discussions, privacy is a key consideration. Choose a location that provides confidentiality and comfort for the interviewee. A private meeting room with secure access is a solid choice in such scenarios.

For investigative journalism or sensitive personal interviews, consider locations that offer both physical and acoustic privacy. Soundproof rooms, remote outdoor settings, or secure online meeting platforms can help protect your subjects’ anonymity and maintain confidentiality.

Respecting privacy not only ensures the comfort and trust of your interviewees but also establishes your professionalism as an interviewer.

Example: If you’re conducting sensitive HR interviews, select a private meeting room with secure access.

#7 Location Scouting and Pre-Interview Visits

Before the actual interview, visit the location to assess its suitability. This allows you to identify and address any potential issues ahead of time.

Before the interview day, conducting a pre-interview visit to the location is a critical step. This proactive approach allows you to identify and address any potential issues or challenges ahead of time.

During your location scouting, pay close attention to the practicalities of the site. Are there adequate power outlets? Do you have permission to use the location? Are there any potential sources of disturbance, such as construction sites or nearby events? This visit provides the opportunity to plan for contingencies or make necessary arrangements.

By visiting the interview location in advance, you can also familiarise yourself with the layout, ensuring a smoother setup and a more relaxed atmosphere during the interview. This level of preparedness can save you time and stress on the day of the interview.

Example: Visit the location a day or two before the interview to check for any unexpected disturbances or lighting issues.

#9 Consistency Across Interviews

If you’re conducting a series of interviews, maintaining consistency in the location and setup can be beneficial. This consistency makes it easier to compare and analyse the interviews.

For those conducting a series of interviews, maintaining consistency in the location and setup is invaluable. This consistency simplifies the process of comparing and analysing the interviews, making it easier to identify trends and insights.

When every interview occurs in a similar environment, you eliminate environmental variables that can affect the interview outcome. This allows you to focus on the content and responses rather than the idiosyncrasies of different settings.

Consistency also benefits your interviewees, as they become familiar with the environment, leading to more relaxed and open conversations. However, remember that while consistency is crucial, it should not stifle your adaptability to cater to the unique needs of each interview.

Example: When conducting a research project, ensure that all interviews take place in the same environment to control variables.

#10 Post-Interview Considerations

After the interview, don’t forget to review your recording for any issues or inconsistencies. Post-production can often correct minor problems.

Your work isn’t finished when the interview concludes. After the interview, take time to review your recording for any issues or inconsistencies. Post-production can often correct minor problems and enhance the overall quality of your content.

Pay attention to the following in your post-interview review:

• Audio quality: Listen for background noise, distortion, or any other audio issues.
• Visual quality (for video interviews): Check for lighting and visual clarity.
• Content accuracy: Ensure the interview content accurately represents what was discussed.
• Edit if necessary: Edit the recording to remove any off-topic or redundant segments.

Post-production tools can help enhance the final product, and it’s an opportunity to add introductory and closing elements, background music, or subtitles for better viewer engagement.

By diligently reviewing your recordings and addressing any issues, you ensure that your interviews are of the highest quality and ready for publication.

Example: In post-production, you can remove background noise or adjust lighting if necessary.