How to Excel at UX Research User Interviews

When conducting User Interviews for UX research, there are many different approaches taken. It is important to first draft the the questions you plan on asking and make sure they are consistent throughout all of your interviews. Get as much information as you can while maintaining a level of professionalism.

There are three things to avoid while conducting user interviews. The first is making the interviewee uncomfortable. Give the participant expectations on the types of questions you will be asking to avoid awkward situations. Second, avoid asking direct questions. Instead of asking ‘Would you use the messaging feature’ ask ‘How would you contact your friend through the app?’. The last thing you want to avoid when interviewing is asking leading questions. Instead of asking ‘Do you use Google to research online’, try asking ‘What’s your research process?’.

It is important to conduct these interviews like a smooth conversation. You must listen and ask smart questions. Another good idea is to define your objective when conducting these user interviews. Your objective should not be too narrow or too broad. This way, you are able to clearly explain to the interviewee the exact purpose of this interview and the type of solution you are looking for when asking these questions.