3 Mindset Shifts for Authentic Corporate Video Interviews
Corporate videos can feel like a dull boardroom slideshow stiff, scripted, instantly forgotten. But authentic interviews? They hit like a story you can’t stop watching. After 14 years directing music videos, wildlife docs, and corporate shoots in London, I’ve learned it’s not about fancy gear it’s about mindset. These three shifts will turn your interviews into stories that stick, drawing viewers to your brand.
1. Swap Scripts for Stories
Photo by Ron Lach
Scripts suck the soul out of interviews. Subjects freeze, spitting out robotic lines. Instead, ask for stories that spark emotion, like, “What’s the toughest challenge you’ve faced in your role?” It’s human and specific.
Real example: Filming for a global event in London, I had extra time, so I asked a top CEO, “You’ve been part of this event since day one what keeps you coming back?” Their passionate story about the event’s community became the video’s heart.
Contrast that with a corporate shoot where a manager kept interrupting an employee, demanding, “No, say it like this.” It felt like an interrogation stifled and fake. Stories breathe; scripts choke.
2. Build Trust Before “Action”
Photo by Jonathan Borba
Ever see a wildlife doc where animals bolt from the camera? People freeze too if they don’t trust you. Before rolling, chat lightly ask about their day or share a quick story (like my regret over skipping a book deal oops, no YouTube fame for me).
Real example: During a shoot, I noticed an interviewee was nervous, fidgeting under the lights. We paused, observed their body language, and switched them from standing to sitting. I stepped back, standing to the left of the camera with the monitor angled so I could check focus without crowding them. That small tweak let them relax, making the interview about them, not the setup. Reading the room builds trust, turning a stiff Q&A into a real conversation.
3. Embrace Silence
Photo by Ariel Martinez
Silence feels awkward but works wonders. Like a pause in a nature doc before a lion’s roar, it lets truth bubble up. Don’t fill gaps; let subjects think. A CEO once shared a game-changing insight because I waited five seconds instead of jumping in. Nod, don’t talk, to keep them going. Silence builds authenticity words can’t touch.
Bonus: Direct with Intention
Photo by Jakub Zerdzicki
Your mindset matters too. Know the story you’re chasing, whether for a startup pitch or a global event promo. We keep it lean at DevilBoy no showboating with excessive gear or crew. We bring just what’s needed: professional lights, sound, and cameras, but no more. This keeps our eco-footprint low, aligning with 2025’s push for sustainable storytelling, while creating an intimate vibe where subjects shine. Lean shoots mean less overwhelm, more authenticity.
Quick Reference: Mindset Shifts for Authentic Interviews
| Mindset Shift | Practical Tip | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Swap Scripts for Stories | Ask, "What's the toughest challenge you've faced?" | Sparks raw, relatable stories that stick. |
| Build Trust Before "Action" | Chat lightly pre-roll; adjust based on body language. | Trust turns interviews into conversations. |
| Embrace Silence | Nod, don't speak, during pauses. | Silence lets authentic insights emerge. |
Ready to Elevate Your Corporate Videos?
These mindset shifts power scalable video production that delivers ROI. They make interviews feel alive, turning viewers into believers. Try them, and watch your videos stand out in a sea of corporate noise.
Our London-based team blends smart direction and eco-friendly shoots to craft interviews that drive engagement and leads. Whether it’s a quick explainer or a multi-cam event, we scale to fit your vision. Check out our services or grab free resources for more tips. Ready to make your corporate videos unforgettable?
