Interviewing for Information Steve Wood TCCC
Interviews Defined A form of oral communication (as opposed to a written interview or survey) Involving two parties (a dyadic situation) With at least one of the parties having a pre-conceived and serious purpose (as opposed to a conversation) With both parties speaking and listening
A Successful Information Interview An information interview is one in which the purpose is for one of the individuals involved to gain needed information.
Step One: Preparation Be clear on the purpose and content of the interview. Know the subject. Make a list of questions Arrange the setting
Types of Questions Factual vs. opinion Open vs. closed Direct vs. indirect Primary vs. secondary Neutral vs. leading Hypothetical
Step Two: Professionalism Be on time for the interview. Be polite. Use the opening to set up the context for the interview. Use the opening to set the tone for the interview.
Step Three: Get Answers Listen Use prompting techniques Use paraphrasing Be curious
Step Four: Record Your Answers Use whatever medium is best for you to record your answers. Be aware of the impact that your recording (whether taking notes or tape recording) has on the situation.