5.4 Interview techniques for audio journalism

Audio interviews are a powerful tool for journalists to gather information and tell compelling stories. Preparation is key, from researching the interviewee to crafting open-ended questions that encourage detailed responses. Active listening and adaptability during the interview ensure a smooth conversation and capture valuable insights.

Editing interview segments requires a keen ear and strategic thinking. Identifying the most compelling quotes, trimming unnecessary content, and creating a logical sequence of clips helps craft a cohesive narrative. Smooth transitions and appropriate audio elements enhance the final product, making it engaging for listeners.

Preparing for and Conducting Audio Interviews

Questions for audio interviews

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• Research interviewee's background, expertise, relevant experiences
  • Consult published works, previous interviews, online presence to identify key topics and themes to explore
• Develop open-ended questions that encourage detailed responses
  • Use "how," "why," "tell me about" to prompt elaboration and avoid yes/no questions or those answered briefly
• Structure questions in logical sequence
  • Begin with easier, rapport-building questions then progress to more complex or sensitive topics
  • Conclude by allowing interviewee to add any additional thoughts
• Prepare follow-up questions and be ready to adapt based on interviewee's responses
  • Example follow-up: "You mentioned [topic], could you elaborate on how that impacted [related issue]?"

Active listening in conversations

• Maintain eye contact and use nonverbal cues to show engagement
  • Nod, smile, lean in to demonstrate interest and avoid distracting behaviors (checking phone, looking at notes)
• Allow interviewee to complete thoughts without interruption
  • Resist urge to jump in or finish sentences and use brief pauses to encourage continuation or elaboration
• Ask clarifying questions when necessary
  • Rephrase or summarize points to ensure understanding and request specific examples or anecdotes to illustrate ideas
• Take brief notes to capture key points and follow-up questions
  • Jot down keywords, phrases, timestamps for later reference avoiding excessive note-taking that may disrupt conversation flow
  • Example note: "12:35 - story about first job, ask about lessons learned"

Adapting Interview Styles and Incorporating Segments

Adapting interview styles

• Tailor approach based on interviewee's personality and comfort level
  • Use conversational style for relaxed/informal subjects and more structured approach for experts/officials
• Adjust tone and language to match interviewee's communication style
  • Mirror pace, volume, level of formality and use resonant terminology and references
• Be sensitive to cultural differences and personal boundaries
  • Research and respect cultural norms or taboos avoiding inappropriate or offensive topics/questions
• Adapt to interview setting and time constraints
  • Be flexible and efficient in high-pressure or time-limited situations
  • Take advantage of relaxed settings to build rapport and explore topics in-depth
  • Examples: 10-minute phone call vs. 1-hour in-person meeting

Editing interview segments

• Review recorded interview to identify most compelling or relevant segments
  • Look for quotes that succinctly capture key ideas/emotions and select segments that advance story's narrative or provide unique insights
• Trim filler words, false starts, irrelevant tangents
  • Use natural pauses or breaths as edit points to maintain smooth flow preserving integrity of interviewee's message
• Create logical sequence of interview clips that supports story's structure
  • Use segments to introduce topics, provide evidence, offer contrasting perspectives ensuring each clip contributes to overall narrative arc and theme
• Use appropriate transitions between interview segments and other audio elements
  • Record brief narration or introductions to provide context and continuity
  • Fade in/out or use natural ambient sound to smooth transitions between clips
  • Example: "Next, we'll hear from [interviewee] about their experience with [topic]" fade out music, fade in interview clip