Interviewing Basics Help You Focus on Content By: Dalya Goldberger Presented by Adam Lichtfuss

Overview Why an Interview The First Hurdle: Setting It Up Being Prepared During the Interview

Why an Interview Interviewing is an excellent primary source It can expose the most up-to-date information and introduce new material An interview can give merit to ideas you formulate during your research

The First Hurdle: Setting It Up The biggest obstacle between you and access to the interviewee is time; Be flexible when setting up a time and location An open and honest approach will show the interviewee that your are an ethical reasonable person Answer as many questions in advance that the interviewee has (i.e. type of information or whether the work will be published)

Being Prepared Make an effort to keep the interview as short as possible Research the subject matter: –You are responsible for having a certain degree of knowledge about the topic (i.e. learn key terminology) Anticipate the direction of the interview: –Start with a list of question to guide you through the interview Be prepared for mishaps: –Bring extra batteries for your tape recorder, extra pencils, and extra paper

During the Interview Make the Interviewee fell comfortable: –Put them at ease by quickly stating their purpose for coming. –If the interviewee is easily distracted, conduct the interview in a quiet place Take the lead: – guide the conversation along specific and relevant paths. – Decide when to give free rein, when to ask questions, and when to observe Be a good listener: –Encourage the interviewee to talk. –Be acquainted with the way they speak. (i.e. figuratively or literally)

During the Interview (cont.) Learn how to read body language: Gauge the way the interviewee is feeling Leaning back in a chair indicates willingness to share Arms folded across the chest shows tension Mirroring the interviewees positive body language may help put them at ease Know when to ask leading questions: These encourage a lengthy response geared towards the subject matter Avoid asking a simple “yes” or “no” answer if an awkward silence occurs, give the interviewee time to respond

Importance to Technical Writing As a research method, interviewing can enhance a project and add new ideas. Interviews are great primary sources

Conclusion Making the most of an interview takes practice By practicing the skills essential to a good interview, you will be able to concentrate on the content of the interview rather than the process