I’m conducting a fireside chat with an influential entrepreneur next week. I’ve reviewed his Ted Talk. I’ve read his Harvard Business Review case study. I’ve seen his incredible accomplishments, and we spoke for about an hour on the phone to plan. I’ve put together rounds of questions and edited them not just to get the content right, but also to ensure the flow is clear and creates good energy.
Interviewers make the mistake of thinking that they have to sound smart, when, in fact, that’s not the point at all. The point is help the interviewee tell memorable, compelling stories that resonate with the audience, and to create a balance of what the audience wants to know and what the interviewee wants to share. You don’t necessarily do this by asking hard, complex questions; a sincere question which generously sets up the interviewee for a great story is even more effective.
What have you learned about asking questions?
A Life of Wonder 
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