Try to start with something positive

• I'm so happy to be able to talk with you
• Thanks for your availability
• It's nice to be able to meet you

What Questions Work Well in an Interview?

• Ask the person for his/her name and position up front.
• Ask open-ended questions that will elicit more than “yes” or “no” answers.
  • What do you think of our town?
  • Could you describe your workspace?
  • How do you feel working from home?
  • Which corner of your home do you like most?
• Keep your questions neutral in tone.
• Ask for definitions, examples, anecdotes.
• Ask questions your audience/readers want to know the answers to.
• Keep your questions short and to the point.
• Ask one question at a time (do not double-up on questions).
• Be prepared to ask follow-up questions—and be sure to be listening for questions that require a follow-up.
• Do not make assumptions.
• Make sure you are asking a question, rather than making a commentary.
• Do not argue with the person you are interviewing.
• Do not try to cover too much territory during the interview. Remember your focus.
• Be polite, but persistent. Keep asking until you get a response to your question.
• Prepare a closing question.
• After the interview is over, ask if there is something he/she would care to add. (This often elicits a very useable interview segment.) Also ask if he/she recommends other people to interview … and if you may contact him/her should you have further questions or need to clarify.**