9.2 Techniques for eliciting information from reluctant sources

Getting reluctant sources to open up is a crucial skill for investigative reporters. Building trust and rapport through active listening, empathy, and confidentiality agreements can encourage sources to share sensitive information. These techniques create a safe space for candid conversations.

Effective questioning strategies are equally important. Open-ended questions, strategic pauses, and non-verbal cues can elicit detailed responses. Advanced techniques like motivational interviewing and cognitive interview 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

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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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  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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• 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 respect 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 off-the-record conversations to encourage candid discussions
• Clearly explain the terms of confidentiality and how information will be used
• Honor agreements regarding anonymity and protection of sources
• Use incremental disclosure 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 funnel technique starting with broad inquiries and narrowing down to specific details
• Use probing questions 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 silence technique by pausing after asking questions to encourage further elaboration
• Observe the source's body language and facial expressions for additional context
• Use mirroring techniques 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 laddering technique to uncover deeper insights by repeatedly asking "why" questions
• Implement the cognitive interview method to enhance memory recall for past events
• Employ the critical incident technique to focus on specific, significant occurrences
• Utilize hypothetical scenarios to explore potential situations and decision-making processes