How to Ask Someone for an Interview: Mastering the Art of Connection

It was a cold, rainy evening in New York City when I sent the email. My heart raced as I clicked "Send," hoping to catch the attention of one of the most influential entrepreneurs in Silicon Valley. I had admired their work for years, but I was just an unknown podcaster trying to make a name for myself. Would they even respond? My mind was a whirlwind of self-doubt, but I knew if I could just get them on the line, it could be a game-changer.

This moment right here—pressing send on that email—is where everything changed.

In my experience, asking for an interview is one of the most underrated skills that can set the stage for remarkable opportunities. It’s not just about asking a question; it’s about building a connection. But how do you make your request stand out in a sea of emails and DMs? How do you get someone to say yes when they’re swamped with similar requests?

Let me take you through the reverse-engineered process that turned my cold emails into responses from some of the biggest names in business.

The Moment of Courage: The Ask

What most people get wrong is that they start too formal, too generic. You need to personalize your message right off the bat. When I reached out to the Silicon Valley entrepreneur, I didn’t begin with a dull introduction or excessive flattery. Instead, I led with how their work had directly impacted my own projects.

Here’s a rough sketch of that email:

Subject: Quick Question About Your Recent Blog Post

Hi [Name],

I just finished reading your latest article on [specific topic], and I couldn’t help but apply your advice to my startup’s marketing strategy. The results were incredible—we saw a 25% increase in lead generation in just two weeks! Your insights on [topic] really made a difference for us.

I’d love to invite you to share more of your expertise on my podcast, where we dive deep into actionable strategies for startup founders.

Would you be open to a quick 30-minute conversation in the next two weeks?

Thanks for your time, and I look forward to the possibility!

Best,
[Your Name]

Notice how I skipped the fluff? I kept it concise, specific, and focused on what they could offer the audience, rather than asking for a favor.

What Makes People Say Yes: Mutual Benefit

The next key point is the value exchange. It’s not about what you can get from them but what you can offer in return. In my case, the podcast was an opportunity for the entrepreneur to speak directly to a niche audience they cared about. By framing the invitation as mutually beneficial, I increased my chances of a positive response.

A simple way to think about this is: WIIFM – What's in it for me? When you craft your request, always consider the other person’s perspective. Why should they take time out of their busy schedule to speak with you? What’s the unique value you bring to the table?

Timing is Everything: When to Send the Request

Timing plays a huge role in whether your interview request gets accepted or ignored. Sending an email during peak work hours or on Mondays when people are buried under an avalanche of emails is a mistake. Studies show that emails sent on Tuesday or Wednesday between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM are more likely to be opened and responded to. I’ve seen a 40% higher response rate by simply adjusting my send times to fit these optimal windows.

Pro tip: If you're using LinkedIn or Instagram to reach out, try DMing early in the morning or late in the evening when they’re more likely to be checking their phone casually.

Following Up: The Key to a Second Chance

Even if your first message goes unanswered, don’t lose hope. Follow-ups are crucial, but they need to be respectful and well-timed. Here’s a rule I’ve lived by: Send the first follow-up 5-7 days after the initial message, and make it even more concise than the first.

Subject: Quick Follow-Up on My Last Message

Hi [Name],

Just wanted to circle back on my invitation. I know you’re incredibly busy, but I’d still love to feature you on the podcast and share your valuable insights with our listeners.

I’m happy to work around your schedule!

Thanks again,
[Your Name]

You wouldn’t believe how many times this simple nudge has worked for me. About 50% of my successful interviews came after a polite, non-intrusive follow-up.

Why Most Interview Requests Fail

Let’s reverse-engineer the common pitfalls. One of the biggest mistakes people make is writing overly long, self-centered emails. Nobody has the time to read your life story or sift through paragraphs of unnecessary information.

Another common error is being too vague. If you say something like, “I’d love to chat sometime,” that could mean anything. Instead, give a specific time frame (e.g., “Would you be available for a 30-minute call in the next two weeks?”). Clarity shows respect for their time.

Finally, forgetting to follow up is a fatal flaw. People are busy, and emails get buried. By not sending a second or even third message, you’re missing out on golden opportunities.

Turning a “No” into a “Yes”

Rejections happen, and it’s easy to get discouraged when someone declines your interview request. But here’s the thing: A ‘no’ doesn’t always mean ‘never.’ In fact, one of my most popular podcast episodes came from someone who initially turned me down.

After receiving a polite “no,” I thanked them and asked if they would be open to reconsidering at a later date or if they knew someone else who might be a good fit. A few months later, they reached out to me with their availability. Persistence, when done right, pays off.

The Psychology Behind the Ask

Let’s dive a bit deeper into the psychology of asking for an interview. Social influence theory tells us that reciprocity plays a major role in getting people to agree to requests. If you’ve already done something valuable for them, they’re more likely to say yes. That’s why it helps to engage with their content first—whether it’s commenting on their blog posts, sharing their work on social media, or applying their advice in your own life.

Another useful tactic is social proof. If you’ve previously interviewed notable figures or have a large, engaged audience, mentioning this can tip the scales in your favor. People are more likely to agree to something when they see others have already done it.

Real-Life Success Stories

One of the most satisfying interviews I ever landed was with a best-selling author. After two ignored emails, I decided to pivot my approach. Instead of focusing on my podcast, I highlighted an event we had both attended years ago and how their talk had inspired me. That small connection was enough to get a “yes,” and it turned into one of my highest-rated episodes.

Final Thoughts: The Power of the Ask

Asking someone for an interview can feel intimidating, but it’s also one of the most powerful ways to build relationships and expand your network. Remember to keep your message clear, concise, and mutually beneficial. Follow up without fear, and don’t take rejections personally.

By mastering the art of the ask, you’ll open doors to conversations you never thought possible. So, go ahead, send that email—you never know where it might lead.