Strategy

User Interview Guide

A user interview guide helps you conduct consistent, thorough interviews. It's a structured, flexible document with questions and prompts to uncover user needs, behaviors, and experiences. Think of it as your interview compass.

Duration
1 hour
Group Size
1-2
Category
Strategy
Difficulty
Easy
Participants will create a user interview guide to ensure consistent data collection, cover key topics, and encourage natural conversation.
A ready-to-use user interview guide and a consistent interview approach, forming a solid foundation for user research.
Use the guide as a flexible tool, not a rigid script. Follow interesting leads. Ask "why" and "can you tell me more?" Listen actively. Avoid leading questions. Capture exact quotes and non-verbal cues. Approach the interview with curiosity, not judgment. Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you won't get the insights you expect; that's part of the process.

  1. Structure your guide into sections: introduction/consent, warm-up, background, core topic, scenarios, wrap-up.

  2. Write open-ended questions that encourage detailed answers.

  3. Add follow-up prompts to dig deeper.

  4. Order questions from general to specific for a natural flow.

  5. Estimate time per section to manage the interview.

  6. Include observation reminders to capture non-verbal cues.

  7. Leave space for detailed notes during the session.

  8. Add optional deep-dive topics for flexibility.

  9. Include a closing and thank you to respect the participant's time.

  10. Test the guide with a pilot interview.

  11. Refine the guide based on pilot learnings. (I've found 2-3 revisions is usually needed!)

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For Facilitators

  • Review participant profiles and expectations
  • Prepare all materials and supplies
  • Test technology and room setup

For Participants

  • Complete pre-session survey
  • Review background materials
  • Prepare examples or case studies

Unlock Pre-Work Requirements

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  • Interview guide document

  • Recording device (with permission)

  • Note-taking materials

  • Consent forms

  • Stimulus materials (if needed)

  • Participant compensation

  • Quiet interview space

Unlock Materials Required

Create a free account to access step-by-step instructions, agendas, and resources for all activities.

  • Facilitator Guide (PDF)
  • Participant Workbook Template
  • Presentation Slides
  • Printable Materials

Unlock Resources & Templates

Create a free account to access step-by-step instructions, agendas, and resources for all activities.

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