Process
How to use a strategic pause in an interview
Five steps for using silence to get fuller answers
A five-step routine for using silence in user interviews and other research conversations. Ask a single question, wait longer than feels natural, watch for signs the participant is still thinking, use a neutral prompt if nothing comes, and pause again after the answer before following up. It suits moderated interviews in person, by video or by phone. In Koji, per-question follow-ups play the part of the second pause in AI-moderated interviews.
Where this appears
What's in this process
- Ask one question, then stop: No follow-on clauses, examples or lists of options.
- Wait longer than feels natural: Count silently to five. The urge to speak is a sign the pause is working.
- Watch for signs of thinking: Looking away, an um or a half-started sentence means they are getting there.
- Prompt neutrally if nothing comes: Try 'Take your time' or repeat their last few words back as a question.
- Wait again after the answer: Give it a few seconds to grow, then follow up on what they actually said.
Use this image
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<a href="https://www.koji.so/visuals/strategic-pause-interview-technique-steps"><img src="https://www.koji.so/visuals/strategic-pause-interview-technique-steps/strategic-pause-interview-technique-steps.png" alt="Process of five steps for using silence in an interview, from asking one question to pausing again after the answer before moving on." width="1200" height="739" /></a>
<p>Source: <a href="https://www.koji.so/visuals/strategic-pause-interview-technique-steps">How to use a strategic pause in an interview</a>, Koji</p>
