20 Interview Questions That Guarantee a Compelling Story
If you’re not already chronicling stories about how your organization touches people, start now. Real-life stories are a powerful tool. People like hearing about other people – especially when stories go beyond the facts to reveal personal struggle, conflict and victory.
It’s the person behind the facts that makes a compelling story.
That’s why a good interview is not always a mining expedition, but rather a conversation with a caring friend. As you listen, show empathy with the storyteller. You’ll build trust. Try these questions to help the storyteller reveal the heart and soul behind the tale.
Questions to get started
1. Describe where you were when [event].
2. What circumstances led you to [event]?
3. What did you do when [event]?
Questions about people involved
4. Who else was involved?
5. In what ways did those involved help you/ create challenges for you?
6. How did your friends and family react?
7. Describe why [relationship] was so meaningful to you during [event].
Questions that go deeper
8. What did you do next?
9. How did you decide to [action]?
10. Tell me the biggest reason you [action].
11. How did that work for you?
Questions that pull out a life lesson
12. What was the most significant moment during [event]?
13. At what point did you realize [situation]?
14. In what way (ways) are you a different person today because of [event]?
15. How has this experience impacted the decisions you make today?
16. Name the top two or three lessons you learned from your experience.
17. What would you say to others who find themselves in a situation similar to yours?
Questions that tie story to your organization
18. How did you find out about [organization]?
19. Why are you willing to share about your experience?
20. How does your experience reveal what [organization] is all about?
About the author
Kathy Widenhouse (www.kathywidenhouse.com) is a freelance development writer who specializes in producing materials for the faith-based, nonprofit market. She also provides strategic consultation to help nonprofits get their message out and get results. Kathy’s 90+ articles have appeared in more than 40 periodicals, and she has written 5 books.