Ways To Make Your Interview Great

Congratulations, you’ve scored an author interview! But… now what? For as exciting as it is to get publicity for your book, it’s equally nerve-wracking for many. Generally speaking, we’re kind of known for being an introverted, limelight shunning crowd, us authors. Despite our reclusive tendencies, we know this is what we need to do to help our book babies get out into the universe. Good news. I can help you get through it… and hopefully even enjoy it!

Fun Fact…

When I started my authorship journey, I never, ever imagined myself doing author events, speaking engagements, and certainly not hosting an audio/video podcast. Yet, here I am, doing all the things. And for the most part, I love all of it (the natural introvert in me always needs to “decompress” after). Sure, I get nervous (every single time). But the experience and benefit outweigh the jitters. I get to learn about new books, discover other author’s process, and best of all, help fellow authors on their journey.

Authors Helping Authors

I discovered early on that my fellow, more seasoned authors love to share their knowledge, and it’s one of the things I love best about our “Writer’s Tribe” (and why I named my show The Writer’s Tribe Talk Show). So, in that same vein, I’d like to share with you my tips for a successful (video) interview. (I share these tips in THIS episode of the Writer’s Tribe Talk Show)

First, The Visual Do’s

• Wipe your camera lens with a soft cloth to remove any fingerprints
• Have your light source (window, lamp) facing you, not behind you.
• Adjust your camera/laptop to place your face & torso center screen.
• Turn your phones off or to silent
• Video interviews (via Zoom or similar) typically shoot from the torso up, so dress for business up top and however the heck you want below camera.
• Have your book handy if you’d like, but we do show a screenshot of your book periodically throughout the episode
• Near the end of the interview, Elsa will ask you to share where readers can find you. Have your social media links, website, and any author events you have coming up ready!

And The Don’ts

• Don’t get up and walk out of the camera’s view (Yes, I’ve had guests do this)
• Don’t stare at the interviewer’s image on your screen, but rather the camera eye
• Don’t fidget
• Don’t slouch

As For the Q & A…

• If you’re anxious about what the interviewer might ask, request they share their questions prior. Sending the host a Podcast one-sheet (brief bio, description of your book(s), headshot, book cover, and some suggested questions is a HUGE help for both interviewer & interviewee!
• Have you answers ready beforehand, and review them, if possible.
• Know your website links, upcoming events, and social media handles ready to share
• Relax!

I know, that last one may be next to impossible, but try anyway. Change the voice in your head from saying, “I’m so nervous” to “I’m so excited.” It’s a psychological trick that’s been proven to work! Personally, I treat every interviewee as if we’re friends having a great chat about that thing we love -writing – and I always suggest they do the same. Remember, you’re talking about the subjects you know better than anyone else: You and Your Books!

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Along with advice/informational episodes & industry insider interviews like THIS, I offer a service to authors trying to establish their platform and presence called Spotlight Author Interviews. If you’d like to learn more about this amazing and fun opportunity, I’d love to hear from you HERE.

About Elsa Kurt

Elsa is a multi-genre author who has penned over 25 books, including twelve contemporary women’s novels. Her fiction stories explore the complex and relatable experiences of everyday life – the love & laughter, the heartbreak & sorrow, and everything in between. She finds the extraordinary in ordinary lives and puts you in the front seat of every story. Elsa has also written several children’s books, all with themes of encouragement, empowerment & uplifting messaging.

 In 2022, Elsa launched The Writer’s Tribe Talk Show, an audio & video podcast for authors & a line of author merchandise in her Writer’s Tribe Store with clothing and more for authors & aspiring authors. Elsa also created three lines of apparel, accessories, & home decor: EKS Store with show & first responder merchandise,iGoodhuman, and Very Sweary Stuff. 

As of 2022, she is the current Vice President of the Connecticut Authors & Publishers Association. Elsa has also embraced the fun and entertaining world of Tik Tok as theotherelsa.