3.2 Preparing for and conducting effective interviews

Effective interviewing is a crucial skill for journalists. It requires thorough preparation, strategic questioning, and the ability to build rapport. From researching your subject to crafting thoughtful questions, every step is vital for a successful interview.

Mastering interview techniques goes beyond just asking questions. It involves adapting to different formats, maintaining professionalism, and upholding ethical standards. By honing these skills, journalists can conduct interviews that yield valuable insights and compelling stories.

Strategic Interview Preparation

Conducting Thorough Research

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• Thorough research on the interviewee, their background, accomplishments, and any relevant current events or controversies is essential for crafting informed and insightful questions
  • Review the interviewee's professional history, including their education, career trajectory, and notable achievements (awards, publications, or major projects)
  • Stay informed about recent developments or news stories related to the interviewee's field or area of expertise
  • Identify any controversies or challenges the interviewee has faced and consider how these experiences may have shaped their perspectives
• Anticipating potential challenges, such as a reluctant or evasive interviewee, and planning strategies to navigate these situations is crucial for maintaining control of the interview
  • Prepare alternative questions or approaches to use if the interviewee is unresponsive or provides limited answers
  • Consider how to respectfully probe further or redirect the conversation if the interviewee veers off-topic or avoids answering questions directly
  • Develop strategies for managing emotionally charged or sensitive topics, such as acknowledging the interviewee's feelings and offering breaks if needed

Defining Objectives and Structuring the Interview

• Preparation should include defining clear objectives for the interview, such as the key information to gather or the angle to pursue, to guide question development and keep the conversation on track
  • Identify the primary purpose of the interview, whether it is to gather background information, explore a specific issue, or obtain the interviewee's unique perspective
  • Determine the most important questions to ask and prioritize them to ensure they are covered within the allotted time
  • Consider how the interview fits into the larger context of the story or project and ensure the questions align with the overall goals
• Creating an interview outline with key topics, potential follow-up questions, and transitions helps structure the conversation flow while allowing flexibility to adapt based on the interviewee's responses
  • Organize questions into logical sections or themes to create a coherent narrative arc
  • Include potential follow-up questions for each main topic to encourage elaboration or clarification
  • Plan smooth transitions between topics to maintain a natural conversation flow and avoid abrupt shifts
• Reviewing and practicing interview questions beforehand builds confidence, improves delivery, and allows for fine-tuning to ensure clarity and effectiveness
  • Read questions aloud to identify any awkward phrasing or unclear language and revise as needed
  • Practice active listening and anticipating potential responses to prepare for various conversation paths
  • Time yourself to ensure the planned questions can be covered within the scheduled interview duration, leaving room for unexpected detours or additional probing

Crafting Effective Interview Questions

Question Structure and Sequencing

• Open-ended questions encourage interviewees to provide more detailed and insightful responses, while closed-ended questions can be used strategically to confirm specific details or facts
  • Use open-ended questions (What led you to pursue this career path?) to invite the interviewee to share their experiences, opinions, and insights
  • Employ closed-ended questions (Did you attend the conference last month?) judiciously to verify information or obtain specific answers
  • Balance the use of open-ended and closed-ended questions to maintain a conversational flow while ensuring key facts are addressed
• Structuring questions in a logical sequence, from broad to more specific, helps to build context and allows the conversation to flow naturally while gradually honing in on key points
  • Begin with broad questions (Can you tell me about your experience working in this industry?) to establish context and build rapport
  • Progressively narrow the focus to more specific aspects of the topic (How has the recent policy change affected your company's operations?)
  • Use the interviewee's responses to guide the conversation and adjust the question order as needed to follow relevant threads

Avoiding Bias and Demonstrating Preparedness

• Avoiding leading questions, which suggest a desired answer, is crucial for maintaining objectivity and ensuring the interviewee's perspective is accurately represented
  • Refrain from phrasing questions in a way that implies a preferred response (Wouldn't you agree that this policy is detrimental?)
  • Use neutral language and tone to encourage the interviewee to express their honest opinions and experiences
  • Be mindful of personal biases and strive to ask questions that allow for a range of perspectives and interpretations
• Incorporating relevant quotes, anecdotes, or data into questions demonstrates thorough research and can prompt the interviewee to engage more deeply with the topic
  • Reference specific statements or events from the interviewee's past to provide context and encourage reflection (In your 2018 TED Talk, you mentioned the importance of collaboration. How has that principle influenced your leadership style?)
  • Cite relevant statistics or research findings to frame questions and invite the interviewee to comment or elaborate (Recent studies show a 20% increase in customer satisfaction following the implementation of this program. What factors do you attribute to this success?)
  • Use anecdotes or examples from the interviewee's industry or field to demonstrate familiarity with the subject matter and foster a more engaging discussion (Many tech companies have faced challenges with data privacy in recent years. How has your organization navigated these concerns?)

Follow-up Questions and Probes

• Follow-up questions and probes, such as "Can you tell me more about that?" or "How did that experience influence your perspective?" help to clarify or expand upon initial responses and uncover deeper insights
  • Ask for specific examples or anecdotes to illustrate the interviewee's points and provide concrete details (Can you share a specific instance when you encountered this challenge and how you addressed it?)
  • Encourage the interviewee to reflect on the significance or impact of their experiences (How did that event shape your approach to leadership moving forward?)
  • Use probes to explore the emotional or personal dimensions of the interviewee's responses (What was going through your mind when you made that difficult decision?)
• Listen actively to the interviewee's responses and use their own words to formulate follow-up questions, demonstrating genuine engagement and interest
  • Paraphrase or summarize the interviewee's statements to ensure understanding and invite further elaboration (So, you're saying that the key to success in this field is adaptability and continuous learning?)
  • Pick up on key phrases or themes mentioned by the interviewee and ask them to expand on those ideas (You mentioned the importance of 'authenticity' in your work. Can you explain what that means to you and how you strive to embody that value?)
  • Use the interviewee's own language to frame follow-up questions, showing that you are actively listening and value their unique perspective (Earlier, you described this project as a 'turning point' in your career. Can you tell me more about how it influenced your professional trajectory?)

Building Rapport and Trust

Creating a Comfortable Atmosphere

• Building a connection with the interviewee through small talk, active listening, and demonstrating genuine interest in their experiences and perspectives helps to create a comfortable and open atmosphere
  • Begin the interview with friendly, casual conversation to put the interviewee at ease and establish a personal connection (How was your journey to the office today? or I noticed the beautiful artwork in your waiting area. Do you have a personal interest in art?)
  • Maintain eye contact, nod, and use other non-verbal cues to show that you are actively listening and engaged in the conversation
  • Ask follow-up questions that demonstrate a sincere desire to understand the interviewee's experiences and viewpoints (That's a fascinating perspective. Can you tell me more about how you came to that realization?)
• Respecting the interviewee's boundaries and comfort level, and being willing to move on from a line of questioning if needed, demonstrates a commitment to their well-being and helps to preserve trust
  • Pay attention to the interviewee's verbal and non-verbal cues that may indicate discomfort or reluctance to discuss certain topics
  • If an interviewee appears hesitant or declines to answer a question, respectfully acknowledge their choice and smoothly transition to another topic (I understand this may be a sensitive subject. Let's move on to discuss your recent accomplishments in the field.)
  • Be prepared to adapt your questioning if the interviewee reveals information that may be personally or professionally compromising, prioritizing their privacy and well-being

Transparency and Gratitude

• Clearly communicating the purpose and scope of the interview, as well as how the information will be used, promotes transparency and helps the interviewee feel more at ease
  • Explain the goals of the interview and the larger project or story it contributes to, providing context for the interviewee
  • Discuss how the interviewee's insights will be incorporated into the final piece and clarify any expectations regarding quotes or attributions
  • Address any concerns the interviewee may have about the use of their information and make sure they understand their rights and the outlet's policies
• Expressing gratitude for the interviewee's time and insights, both during and after the interview, reinforces the value of their contribution and lays the foundation for potential future interactions
  • Thank the interviewee at the beginning of the session for making time to share their experiences and perspectives
  • Acknowledge the unique value of the interviewee's contribution and express appreciation for their candor and engagement throughout the conversation (Your insights on this topic have been incredibly valuable and have given me a fresh perspective on the issue.)
  • Follow up after the interview with a personalized thank-you note, reiterating the significance of their participation and the impact it will have on the final piece

Maintaining Objectivity and Empathy

• Maintaining a non-judgmental and empathetic approach, even when discussing sensitive or controversial topics, is essential for encouraging honest and candid responses
  • Approach the interview with an open mind and a willingness to understand the interviewee's perspective, even if it differs from your own
  • Avoid expressing personal opinions or judgments that may influence the interviewee's responses or make them feel defensive
  • Demonstrate empathy and understanding when the interviewee shares difficult or emotional experiences, acknowledging the significance of their story (I can only imagine how challenging that must have been for you and your family.)
• Practice active listening and use verbal and non-verbal cues to show understanding and encouragement, creating a safe space for the interviewee to share their thoughts
  • Maintain eye contact and use facial expressions to convey engagement and understanding
  • Use verbal affirmations (I see, That makes sense) to indicate that you are following the interviewee's train of thought and encourage them to continue
  • Summarize or paraphrase the interviewee's statements to ensure you have accurately understood their perspective and to demonstrate your attentiveness (So, what you're saying is that the new policy had unintended consequences for small businesses like yours?)

Adapting Interview Techniques

Leveraging Different Interview Formats

• In-person interviews allow for the observation of non-verbal cues, such as facial expressions and body language, which can provide additional context and insight into the interviewee's responses
  • Pay attention to the interviewee's posture, gestures, and facial expressions to gauge their comfort level and emotional state
  • Use the physical environment to create a comfortable and engaging atmosphere, such as selecting a quiet, private location and maintaining an open and friendly demeanor
  • Leverage the opportunity for direct eye contact and personal connection to build rapport and trust with the interviewee
• Phone interviews require a greater emphasis on verbal communication and active listening to compensate for the lack of visual cues, as well as clear enunciation and avoidance of distracting background noise
  • Speak clearly and at a moderate pace to ensure the interviewee can easily understand your questions and comments
  • Use verbal affirmations and prompts (Mhm, I understand, Please go on) to indicate active listening and encourage the interviewee to continue speaking
  • Minimize background noise and distractions on your end to maintain a professional and focused atmosphere throughout the call
• Video interviews offer a balance between the personal connection of in-person interviews and the convenience of remote communication, but require attention to technical details such as lighting, camera angle, and stable internet connection
  • Test your video and audio settings before the interview to ensure a clear and professional appearance
  • Position the camera at eye level and maintain focus on the lens to simulate direct eye contact with the interviewee
  • Choose a clean, uncluttered background and ensure adequate lighting to create a professional and visually appealing setting

Tailoring Communication Style and Adapting to Challenges

• Tailoring questions and communication style to the specific interview format helps to maximize the effectiveness of each approach and ensure a productive conversation
  • For in-person interviews, leverage the opportunity for non-verbal communication and personal connection to create a more conversational and engaging atmosphere
  • During phone interviews, use verbal cues and prompts to convey active listening and maintain a clear, focused dialogue
  • In video interviews, pay extra attention to your facial expressions, body language, and eye contact to compensate for the lack of physical presence
• Flexibility and adaptability are key when technical difficulties or other unexpected challenges arise, such as having backup communication methods or rescheduling options in place
  • Have alternative contact methods (phone number or email) available in case of technical issues with the primary interview platform
  • Be prepared to troubleshoot common technical problems, such as audio or video settings, and have a plan for proceeding if they cannot be resolved quickly
  • Remain calm and professional if interruptions or distractions occur, acknowledging the situation and working with the interviewee to find a solution (I apologize for the background noise. Let me close the window and we can continue our discussion.)
• Adapt your questioning style and approach based on the interviewee's responses and comfort level, being willing to pivot or adjust as needed to maintain a productive conversation
  • If an interviewee seems uncomfortable or hesitant to answer a question, rephrase it or approach the topic from a different angle to put them at ease
  • When an interviewee provides an unexpectedly brief or limited response, use follow-up questions or prompts to encourage them to elaborate or provide more context
  • If the conversation veers off-topic or loses focus, gently redirect the interviewee back to the main points of discussion, while still allowing for some flexibility and spontaneity in the dialogue

Professionalism and Ethics in Interviews

Maintaining Professional Standards

• Punctuality, appropriate attire, and a polite and respectful demeanor demonstrate professionalism and help to establish a positive rapport with the interviewee
  • Arrive on time or a few minutes early for the interview to show respect for the interviewee's schedule and to allow for any necessary setup or preparation
  • Dress in a manner that is appropriate for the setting and the interviewee's professional context, erring on the side of being slightly overdressed rather than too casual
  • Use polite language and a friendly tone throughout the interaction, beginning with a warm greeting and ending with a sincere expression of gratitude for the interviewee's time and insights
• Accurately representing the interviewee's perspectives and statements, and providing context where necessary, ensures that their views are not mischaracterized or misappropriated
  • Take careful notes or record the interview (with permission) to ensure that quotes and information are accurately captured and attributed
  • When writing or presenting the interview content, use the interviewee's own words whenever possible and provide sufficient context to avoid misinterpretation or misrepresentation
  • If unsure about the meaning or intent behind an interviewee's statement, follow up with them for clarification or additional context before publishing
• Disclosing any potential conflicts of interest or biases that may influence the interview or the use of the information gathered is essential for maintaining transparency and credibility
  • Inform the interviewee of any personal or professional relationships, financial interests, or other factors that could be perceived as influencing the interview or the final content
  • Be transparent with readers or viewers about any potential biases or conflicts of interest that may have affected the interview or the presentation of the information
  • If a conflict of interest arises after the interview, contact the interviewee to discuss the situation and determine an appropriate course of action

Upholding Ethical Obligations

• Maintaining confidentiality and respecting the interviewee's privacy, including obtaining explicit consent for recording or sharing any sensitive information, is a fundamental ethical obligation
  • Clearly explain any confidentiality agreements or policies to the interviewee and obtain their informed consent before proceeding with the interview
  • Protect the interviewee's personal information and ensure that any sensitive details are handled with discretion and care
  • If an interviewee requests to speak off the record or share information that they do not want to be published, honor their wishes and do not include that content in the final piece
• Adhering to relevant professional and legal standards, such as those related to copyright, libel, and privacy, protects both the interviewer and the interviewee and promotes responsible and ethical journalism practices
  • Familiarize yourself with the legal and ethical guidelines that apply to your specific context, such as laws related to recording conversations or the use of anonymous sources
  • Ensure that any content used in the final piece, such as quotes or images, is properly attributed and does not infringe upon copyright or intellectual property rights
  • Carefully fact-check all information presented in the interview and the final content to avoid publishing false or misleading statements that could be considered libelous
• Respect the interviewee's autonomy and right to make informed decisions about their participation in the interview and the use of their information
  • Provide the interviewee with a clear understanding of the purpose, format, and intended use of the interview, allowing them to ask questions and voice any concerns
  • Obtain the interviewee's explicit consent for any recordings, photographs, or other materials that will be collected or used in the final content
  • If an interviewee expresses discomfort or wishes to withdraw their participation at any point, respect their decision and work with them to find an appropriate resolution, such as removing their contributions from the final piece or finding an alternative way to present the information