Top five traits of a good interviewer

A lot of hosts, celebrities, broadcast journalists, etc. are getting the ire of a lot of people on social media because of the way they conduct interviews and even, who they interview. The thing about it is that no matter what anyone says, an interviewer will always be damned for something. Anything. And because there’s no perfect interviewer, interviewee, and topic. Why come up with this list, AT ALL? Well, for my peace of mind (given that the national elections are just months away) and just for the heck of it, here’s my top five traits of interviewers:

1. Researches

When one goes to battle, one must be armed. Same with an interviewer: before sitting down with a subject, one must research thoroughly on the person’s background- and the issues that are relevant to the subject matter.

2. Asks the right questions

When one interviews, specially when a particular topic is at hand, one must ask the right questions. One must not stray—or at least form the questions cohesively so it doesn’t look wayward or unplanned.

3. Listens well

I hate interviewers who don’t listen to what their interviewee is saying—that they either jump to another totally unrelated topic. When one listens well, the person can easily glide to another question and make it look like an unforced conversation. These natural exchanges are what makes interviews more authentic.

4. Has empathy

A good interviewer has to show respect towards his interviewee. Remember, they consented to the interview because you asked (or your entity asked). While there may be times that you have to put them on the spot, there will always be a good way to dish your question/s without having to sound arrogant. Also, don’t push questions with the end goal of getting the answers YOU want to hear.

5. Has no judgment

You always have to be objective when you sit down to interview someone. Just because a person has earned a certain type of reputation or is identified with a different group or ideology or belief as yours or the entity you work with, doesn’t mean you can play judge. Just simply ask the questions, get the answers and that’s it. Ask questions devoid of malice.