5.2 Interview preparation and execution

Interviews are the lifeblood of journalism, providing firsthand accounts and expert insights. Proper preparation is key to conducting effective interviews that yield valuable information and compelling quotes for your stories.

Mastering interview techniques allows journalists to adapt to various sources and situations. From crafting thoughtful questions to active listening and organizing data, these skills help reporters gather the crucial details that bring their stories to life.

Interview Preparation

Crafting effective interview questions

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Top images from around the web for Crafting effective interview questions

• 

  Interviewing a source: Tips View original

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• 

  "Five Ways Cognitive Crafting Prepares You for an Interview" - HigherEdJobs View original

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• 

  Use Effective Questioning Strategies – University 101: Study, Strategize and Succeed View original

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• 

  Interviewing a source: Tips View original

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  "Five Ways Cognitive Crafting Prepares You for an Interview" - HigherEdJobs View original

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• Determine the purpose and focus of the interview
  • Identify the main topic and angle of the story (local election, education reform)
  • Establish what information needs to be gathered (candidate positions, policy impacts)
• Research the interviewee and subject matter thoroughly
  • Gather background information on the person being interviewed (career history, public statements)
  • Familiarize yourself with the topic to ask informed questions (recent developments, key issues)
• Create open-ended questions that encourage detailed responses
  • Avoid yes/no questions that limit the interviewee's response
  • Use "how," "why," and "what" to prompt elaboration ("How has your experience shaped your views on...")
• Structure questions in a logical order
  • Begin with easier, introductory questions to build rapport ("Can you tell me about your background in...")
  • Progress to more complex or sensitive topics ("What are your thoughts on the controversy surrounding...")
  • End with a question that allows the interviewee to add any additional thoughts ("Is there anything else you'd like to share...")
• Prepare follow-up questions based on anticipated responses
  • Anticipate potential answers and have related questions ready ("If you mention X, I'll ask about Y")
  • Be prepared to probe deeper into interesting or unexpected responses ("That's fascinating, can you expand on...")

Active listening for elaboration

• Maintain eye contact and use nonverbal cues to show engagement
  • Nodding, smiling, and leaning forward demonstrate interest
  • Avoid distracting behaviors like checking your phone or looking away
• Use verbal affirmations to encourage the interviewee to continue
  • Say "mhm," "I see," or "go on" to show you're listening
  • Repeat key phrases or words to prompt further explanation ("You mentioned 'innovative approach,' what does that entail?")
• Ask follow-up questions based on the interviewee's responses
  • Seek clarification or additional details when needed ("Can you give an example of how that policy would work in practice?")
  • Use phrases like "Can you tell me more about..." or "What do you mean by..."
• Allow for moments of silence to give the interviewee time to think
  • Resist the urge to fill every pause with a new question
  • Silence can encourage the interviewee to share more information
• Summarize key points to ensure understanding and encourage elaboration
  • Paraphrase the interviewee's main ideas to confirm accuracy ("So, what you're saying is...")
  • Ask if there's anything else they'd like to add on the topic ("Is there another aspect of this issue we haven't covered?")

Interview Execution

Adapting techniques for diverse sources

• Tailor your approach based on the interviewee's personality and role
  • Use a more formal tone with high-profile or expert sources (government officials, academics)
  • Adopt a conversational style with everyday people or human interest stories (local residents, event attendees)
• Consider the sensitivity of the topic and the interviewee's comfort level
  • Be empathetic and respectful when discussing personal or emotional subjects (health issues, family matters)
  • Offer to keep certain information off the record if requested ("We can keep that detail anonymous if you prefer")
• Adjust your questioning style based on the interview format
  • In-person interviews allow for more nonverbal communication and rapport building
  • Phone or video interviews may require more verbal affirmations and clear questions
• Be flexible and prepared to deviate from planned questions when necessary
  • Follow interesting tangents or unexpected revelations ("That's an intriguing point, can we explore that further?")
  • Adapt to changes in the interviewee's availability or willingness to talk

Organization of interview data

• Record the interview if possible and permitted
  • Use a reliable recording device or app (smartphone, digital recorder)
  • Always ask for the interviewee's consent before recording
• Take thorough notes during the interview
  • Jot down key quotes, facts, and observations
  • Use shorthand or abbreviations to keep up with the conversation
• Transcribe the interview as soon as possible after it concludes
  • Listen to the recording and type out the full conversation
  • Fill in any gaps in your notes and ensure accuracy
• Highlight and organize the most relevant and compelling information
  • Identify quotes that support your story angle or reveal new insights
  • Group related ideas or themes together (economic impact, personal anecdotes)
• Create a system for easy retrieval and reference
  • Label and date your notes and transcripts clearly ("Mayoral_Candidate_Interview_04152023")
  • Store them in a designated folder or file system
  • Consider using a spreadsheet or database for longer projects with multiple interviews