9.2 Techniques for eliciting information from reluctant sources
2 min read•august 9, 2024
Getting reluctant sources to open up is a crucial skill for investigative reporters. Building trust and rapport through , , and can encourage sources to share sensitive information. These techniques create a safe space for candid conversations.
Effective questioning strategies are equally important. , , and can elicit detailed responses. Advanced techniques like and methods help uncover deeper insights from hesitant sources.
Establishing Trust and Rapport
Building Connections with Sources
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Top images from around the web for Building Connections with Sources
Trust | Conceptual image - success of teamwork. Objects isol… | Flickr View original
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Walter V. Robinson: Spotlight on Investigative Reporting | Shorenstein Center View original
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21st Century Muckraking: Investigative Reporting Unleashed – Global Investigative Journalism Network View original
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Trust | Conceptual image - success of teamwork. Objects isol… | Flickr View original
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Walter V. Robinson: Spotlight on Investigative Reporting | Shorenstein Center View original
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Develop genuine interest in the source's perspective and experiences
Use small talk to create a comfortable atmosphere before diving into sensitive topics
Find common ground or shared interests to establish a connection (sports, hobbies, professional background)
Demonstrate for the source's expertise and knowledge in their field
Maintain a non-judgmental attitude throughout the interaction
Active Listening and Empathy
Practice empathetic listening by focusing fully on the source's words and emotions
Use verbal and non-verbal cues to show engagement (nodding, maintaining eye contact, leaning in)
Reflect back key points to demonstrate understanding and encourage further elaboration
Acknowledge the source's feelings and experiences without imposing personal opinions
Ask clarifying questions to ensure accurate comprehension of the information shared
Building Trust Through Confidentiality
Offer to encourage candid discussions
Clearly explain the terms of and how information will be used
Honor agreements regarding anonymity and protection of sources
Use techniques to gradually build trust over time
Start with less sensitive topics and progress to more confidential information as rapport strengthens
Effective Questioning Techniques
Strategic Question Formulation
Utilize open-ended questions to encourage detailed responses (What led to your decision to...?)
Frame questions neutrally to avoid leading the source or suggesting a desired answer
Employ the starting with broad inquiries and narrowing down to specific details
Use to delve deeper into important topics (Can you elaborate on...?)
Adapt questioning style based on the source's personality and communication preferences
Non-Verbal Communication and Silence
Implement the by pausing after asking questions to encourage further elaboration
Observe the source's body language and facial expressions for additional context
Use to build rapport by subtly matching the source's posture and tone
Maintain an open and relaxed posture to create a non-threatening environment
Pay attention to your own non-verbal cues to ensure they align with your verbal communication
Advanced Interviewing Strategies
Apply motivational interviewing techniques to explore the source's motivations and values
Use the to uncover deeper insights by repeatedly asking "why" questions
Implement the cognitive interview method to enhance memory recall for past events
Employ the to focus on specific, significant occurrences
Utilize hypothetical scenarios to explore potential situations and decision-making processes