What things do you look for in an interviewer?

[[deleted user]]

What qualities or traits do you look for in an interviewer?

[Michelle]

Clarity: it is easy to understand the questions?
Flexibility: if my answer doesn't fit their line of questioning, can they adapt their questions?
Thoughtfulness: are they "good" questions - questions that the interviewee and readers/audience will be interested in?

I haven't experienced any bad interviewers myself, but I've seen some interviews go south and it was mostly because of a lack of flexibility, where the interviewer insisted that their questions get answered whether the subject wanted to or not. I once moderated a panel where my initial question made the guest of honor say "What?!" and I had to learn to be flexible REALLY quickly.

[Adam]

I prefer interviewers who actually listen to the responses he/she is receiving and form follow-up questions based on the specific responses. Many interviews just have a list of questions they plan on asking and simply stick to the script. But the really interesting material comes from follow-up questions.

[M.J.]

I agree with all above and would add a sense of fun, mischief even. I don't mind being asked the questions which some would not dare to ask. I'd prefer to confront issues head on rather than skirting around them for fear of upsetting others.