We like to conduct our interview with you, in an informal and conversational manner. Much like two old friends having a lovely conversation (albeit with lights and cameras) about the important things in your life.
We have a series of guiding questions that we reference to help us build the narrative of your life story and to cover the most important aspects of what makes you, you.
This list isn't exhaustive and many of the questions naturally arise throughout the general ebb and flow of our conversation.
These questions (and others) should help capture a coherent narrative that spans from early childhood to current day, highlighting significant moments and personal insights along the way.
Of course many questions will have an organic flow that lead to other areas but broadly these general areas should be covered to get the broadest view of your life.
(However, we fully understand that this is YOUR story to tell and we will be guided by YOUR instruction and lead)
Setting the Base:
- Name, date-of-birth, where were you born?
Early Life:
- Can you describe your childhood home and neighborhood?
- What were your parents like, and how did they influence you?
- Do you have any siblings? What was your relationship with them like growing up?
- What are some of your earliest memories?
- Can you share any family traditions or rituals that were significant to you as a child?
Education:
- Where did you go to school, and what was it like?
- Were there any teachers or mentors who had a particularly strong impact on you?
- What subjects or activities were you passionate about in school?
- Do you have any memorable stories from your school days?
Adolescence:
- How did your teenage years shape your personality and interests?
- Were there any pivotal moments during this period that stand out to you?
- Did you have any particular role models or heroes during this time?
Sporting Endeavors:
- What sports were you involved with as a child? And as an adult?
- What were your favorite sports to compete in or watch?
- Did you achieve any success in your chosen sport?
Further Education/Training:
- Did you go on to complete any tertiary education (TAFE, College, University)
- Where did you complete this further study, or apprenticeship?
- How many years did it take to complete your further education or training?
Qualifications:
- What academic qualifications have you achieved?
- What trade qualifications have you achieved?
- Have you been involved in any professional bodies related to your field of expertise?
Early Adulthood/Career/Business:
- What was your first job, and how did it shape your career path?
- What inspired you to choose your current profession or trade?
- Can you describe a pivotal moment in your career that defined your path?
- Have there been any significant challenges in your professional journey? How did you overcome them?
- What are some key accomplishments you're proud of in your career or business?
- If you own(ed) a business, what motivated you to start it, and what have been the biggest lessons learned?
- How do you balance work and personal life effectively?
- Who have been your mentors or role models in your professional life, and what impact did they have on you?
- What advice would you give to someone starting out in your field today?
Military Service (If Applicable):
- What motivated you to join the military?
- Can you describe your initial training experience?
- Which branch did you serve in, and what was your role?
- Were there any particular missions or deployments that stand out in your memory?
- How did your military service impact your personal development?
- Did you receive any awards or recognitions during your service? If so, which ones and for what achievements?
- How did you cope with being away from family and friends while serving?
- What were some of the greatest challenges you faced during your military service, and how did you overcome them?
- In what ways has your military experience influenced your approach to civilian life and work thereafter?
- What advice would you offer to someone considering a career in the military today?
Relationships:
- Can you share memories of your first love and what you learned from that experience?
- How did you meet your spouse/partner (if applicable), and what drew you to them initially?
- What has been a key to maintaining strong relationships in your life?
- Can you describe an important friendship or mentorship that has meant a lot to you over the years?
- Are there any friendships that have particularly impacted your life? How so?
Family Life:
- Describe your relationship with your siblings or other close family members during your youth.
- Who is (was) your spouse/partner?
- Your children? (names, when they were born)
- Your Grandchildren? (names, when were they born)
- How has becoming a parent (if applicable) influenced your outlook on life?
- Are there any family traditions you have created or continued with your own family?
- What lessons or values have you tried to pass on to your children or loved ones?
Major Life Events:
- Can you describe a major life event that shaped who you are today?
- Were there any significant challenges or hardships you've faced, and how did you navigate through them?
- What achievements are you most proud of, and why?
Reflections:
- Looking back, what advice would you give to your younger self?
- Are there any regrets or things you wish you had done differently in life?
- What experiences have given your life the most meaning and fulfillment?
Wisdom and Legacy:
- What values or principles do you hold most dear, and why?
- What do you hope to be remembered for by future generations?
- If you could leave one piece of wisdom for future generations, what would it be?
Current Life:
- How do you spend your time these days, and what brings you joy now?
- What goals or aspirations do you still have for the future?
