The Impact of Interviewing... on Me

Interviewing was initially one of the most daunting parts of the writing process for me. The idea of being responsible for guiding a conversation, asking the right questions, and accurately representing someone else’s words felt overwhelming. I worried about saying the wrong thing, missing important information, or not knowing how to respond in the moment. It required stepping outside of my comfort zone and trusting my ability to communicate clearly and professionally.

However, as I gained experience, my perspective began to shift. I realized that interviewing is less about performing perfectly and more about listening with genuine curiosity and attention. Once the conversation began, the pressure I had imagined started to fade. Instead of focusing on myself, I focused on the person I was interviewing and the story they were sharing. This made the experience feel more natural and meaningful.

Over time, I found myself enjoying the process. Interviewing allowed me to connect with people in a way that writing alone cannot provide. It gave depth and authenticity to the stories I was telling because the information came directly from real experiences rather than assumptions. It also helped me build confidence in my ability to communicate and adapt in real time.

Interviewing has changed how I view writing. I now see interviewing as an essential part of creating accurate, thoughtful, and engaging content. It has strengthened my listening skills, improved my confidence, and reminded me that strong writing often begins with understanding others. While it once felt intimidating, interviewing has become one of the most rewarding parts of the storytelling process.

This experience has reinforced the idea that writing is not only about expressing ideas, but also about understanding others. Interviewing builds empathy, improves communication skills, and strengthens the accuracy and depth of writing.

Melissa Jane Botha - 11 February 2026