Who needs a professional interviewer?

If you want to record your memories, or some good advice to pass on to future generations, your first instinct might be to ask a family member or friend to interview you.

A good interviewer asks well-crafted prompt questions to remind you what you wanted to say, and to keep you on track. If you are lucky enough to know someone who’s willing and able to steer a video chat, that’s great! Here’s a few friendly suggestions from the pros at Moving Memoirs to help your interviewer create a positive experience:

1. Listen as if the story is brand new, even if this is the 100th iteration.

Show interest and non-distracting encouragement. Use active listening feedback, such as head nods and empathy appropriate to what is being said. Imagine the roles reversed and mirror what you’d want to see from a conversation partner.

Note, however, that storytellers often have more enthusiasm when telling the story to someone new, and they feel free to enliven it with more detail instead of, “well, you know how that turned out.” If the camera operator is someone new to the interviewee, this might help. Just ensure they break the ice before hitting “record”.

2. Do not interrupt unless essential, and then, do so politely.

Talking over someone derails their train of thought. Patience is an interviewer essential, from start to finish. If the subject has gone too far down a rabbit hole, try raising your hand near your face, as though you have thought of something. They’ll likely notice, and think you have a clarifying question. Use polite language, a calm tone, and thank them after you’ve interrupted to speak briefly.

Don’t worry about the question sequence or a lengthy answer. Our video editors craft expert transitions and know from experience what will interest viewers. Post-production is where footage becomes a great video.

3. Maintain a neutral facial expression if you are uncomfortable with or disagree with something the interviewee said.

No pursed lips, eye rolls, and other negative body language. At best, negative visual feedback can cause the subject to explain themselves; at worst, it makes them feel defensive and can cause an argument.

Memoir is not the same as biography which is more journalistic and not shy of challenge questions. Memoir is a time for self-expression without censorship or judgement.

Some people wait all their lives to be heard. Moving Memoirs’ caring team members look forward to hearing from you, and helping you craft your video message, your way.

Got questions about our process? Please contact us.