Conducting radio interviews

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Having talked of being interviewed on radio, I'll now cover tips from my own experience of conducting radio interviews. My interviews with guests on my radio shows were never controversial. I invited guests in well before the show was recorded or more often went out live, so they could see the studio. I told them what questions I'd ask before we start, and invite them to choose music relating to their interests and their lives too. My first guest was local film maker, Stuart Alexander Rees - I asked him about how he got into filming, photography, etc. He had a chance to discuss his projects, and an important question at the end of an interview, I always allow the guest to sum things up. Later guests included real ale society Chair Steve Davis, Lindy Hop dancer Velody, Steampunk specialist, Robin Spearkite, Happiness Coach Mary Crumpton, and Burlesque star, Suzie Sequin - all of who proved to be fabulous. Time is important in interviews - the length of the show, whether the guest plans to drop in for ten minutes or stay through a two hour show, other features and guests needing attention, etc. The radio station should offer basic hospitality - a comfy Green Room waiting area, a chance to get water or coffee (never get guests drunk before interviews), and clear instructions on how to get in and out of the recording studio building - many of which are a rabbit warren labyrinth of corridors and locked doors. If you have other guests on discussing the same issues, and topics, the guests should be aware of it, unless you are interviewing someone on political issues where you may want to grill a guest, but generally, treat your guests politely, and fairly - many may be nervous about the mic, especially if going on air live. My guests are generally my friends, and I like to make them feel as relaxed as possible for their sakes, mine and that of the listeners too. Arthur Chappell