User interviews are a cornerstone in empathy-driven design, offering an in-depth understanding of user experiences. Here’s an effective approach:

• Open-ended questions: Craft questions that encourage detailed responses, focusing on "what," "how," and "why" rather than simple yes/no queries.
• Active listening: Prioritize listening over speaking. It'll help uncover subtle nuances that might not be immediately apparent.
• Creating a comfortable environment: Make interviewees feel relaxed and open to foster more honest and comprehensive responses.
• Observing non-verbal cues: Pay attention to body language and tone to get additional insights beyond spoken words.
• Avoiding leading questions: To ensure unbiased insights, questions should be framed neutrally without suggesting any specific answer.
• Adaptability: Be ready to explore new topics or interesting leads that emerge during the interview.
• Effective documentation: Take thorough notes and, with consent, record the interviews.^[1]