Great interviews don’t just happen—they require preparation! Whether you’re the host or the guest, your setup can make or break the entire conversation. A little planning goes a long way to ensure a smooth, engaging, and professional interview experience.
Let’s break it down so both hosts and guests can bring their A-game and make every interview shine.
For Hosts: Set Your Guests Up for Success
As the host, you’re in charge of making sure your guest has everything they need to show up confidently and prepared. Think of it like hosting a party—you want your guest to feel comfortable, informed, and ready to engage. Here’s how to do it:
Send a Pre-Interview Checklist
Your guest may not be familiar with the technical setup, format, or expectations of your show. Help them by providing a clear checklist that includes:
- Tech Setup: Recommend a good microphone, camera, and lighting setup.
- Background & Dress Code: Let them know if the setting is formal, casual, or themed.
- Interview Format: Is it live or pre-recorded? How long will it be? Will there be audience interaction?
- Key Topics: Provide an outline of the discussion without over-scripting.
📌 Tip: Send this guest checklist at least 48 hours before the interview so your guest has time to prepare.
Offer a Pre-Show Tech Check
Never assume your guest knows how to set up their tech! A quick tech check 15 minutes before the interview can help avoid last-minute issues. This allows time to:
- Test audio and video quality
- Ensure a strong internet connection (preferably wired)
- Walk them through the scenes and transitions in Ecamm Live
- Answer any last-minute questions
A warm-up chat during this time can also help your guest feel more comfortable before going live!
For Guests: Show Up Like a Pro
The success of an interview doesn’t just depend on the host. As a guest, you can take steps to ensure you bring your best self to the conversation.
Prepare a Media Kit
Having a media kit ready can save time and make your interview promo-ready. Include:
- A short bio (that you wouldn’t mind being read word for word)
- A high-quality headshot for promotional materials
- Relevant links (website, social media, key projects)
- Key talking points to help the host guide the conversation
Test Your Tech in Advance
Avoid scrambling at the last minute by checking your setup before the interview. Make sure to:
- Check your internet connection (wired is best!)
- Ensure clear, even lighting
- Use a quality microphone and headphones to avoid echo
- Test your camera positioning so you’re framed properly
- Use Ecamm Live’s preview mode to see and hear what you’ll look like on-screen
Be On Time and Engaging
Being late throws off the entire flow of the interview. Show up on time, ready to engage in a real conversation—not just deliver scripted answers.
- Arrive at least 10-15 minutes early for tech checks
- Listen actively and avoid one-word responses
- Be natural and expressive—remember, it’s a conversation, not a monologue!
The Ultimate Virtual Interview Checklist
For Hosts
✅ Send a detailed pre-interview checklist 48 hours before
✅ Brief guests on the interview format (live or recorded, duration, audience engagement)
✅ Share key topics instead of a rigid script
✅ Offer a pre-show tech check (5-15 minutes before going live)
✅ Ensure guests understand the production flow in Ecamm Live
For Guests
✅ Prepare a media kit (short bio, headshot, key links, talking points)
✅ Test your internet connection (wired preferred!)
✅ Check lighting and audio quality
✅ Frame yourself properly on camera
✅ Arrive early for a tech check and warm-up conversation
✅ Be engaging and ready to have a natural conversation
Final Thoughts
Virtual interviews work best when both the host and the guest come prepared. With a little effort, you can ensure a polished, professional, and engaging experience for your audience.
And of course, if you want your interviews to look next-level, Ecamm Live is the ultimate tool for hosts and guests alike! It provides a seamless, high-quality production experience that makes every interview shine.
Now, let’s hear from you! Hosts, what do you wish your guests did better? Guests, what do you wish hosts provided? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!
