Video Answers. Episode 2.

In this second episode of Video Answers we answer the question: Will I get a list of questions before my interview?
To help you prepare for your interview we’ve already written about the 5 Burning Questions About Your On-Camera Interview, but we really didn’t answer the question about, well, questions. So let’s address it now.
When we’re about to interview someone, it’s not uncommon to get a request for the list of questions we’re going to ask during the interview. Sounds reasonable enough. Then why do I almost never share questions before an interview? Here’s why.

Why I don’t share a list of questions before the interview

I don’t share a list of questions before an interview because I want you to look good.

What almost always happens when people get a list of questions before an interview, is they over prepare, mapping out exactly what they will say and how they will say it.

That over preparation in turn leads to frustration on their part when they can’t answer a question exactly like they’ve memorized it–which flusters them and leads them to answer the question again, and again, and again, until they can say it perfectly. But by the time they get it perfect, it doesn’t sound authentic. And if it doesn’t sound authentic, we probably can’t use it.

So what’s the answer?

Instead of sharing a list of questions, I share subjects.

Before you panic, keep in mind that we’re interviewing you because you’re an expert on your subject matter, regardless of what that is. What we really want from you are your opinions and your experiences shared in real, authentic ways.

We can get cold, hard facts from the library or wikipedia, but you’re the only person who can share your opinions and experiences.

So the next time you’ve got a video interview, ask for clarity on the subject matter not for a list of questions.
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Need Answers?

Head over to comprehensivemedia.com/videoanswers to learn more!
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Comprehensive Media is an video communications company that brings businesses perspective through ideas, messages and stories.