THE ART OF THE INTERVIEW Or, How to simulate a real conversation while waving a long metal stick in someone’s face

The Press as Guardians of Democracy “The Security of the Nation is not at the ramparts alone. Security also lies on the value of our free institutions. A cantankerous press, an obstinate press, a ubiquitous press must be suffered by those in authority in order to preserve the even greater values of freedom of expression and the right of the people to know.” Judge Murray Gurfein 1971

What is an interview? 1. A one-way exchange of information 2. A formalized conversation with a goal 3. A two-way chat 4. Entertainment

Rule #1: Know What You’re After 1. Know why you are doing the interview.What is the one question you most need answered? 2. Know everything you can about the topic you are asking about. Be super-prepared. 3. Be willing to go with a new line of questioning if necessary.

Do’s of Interviewing Do Listen intently, question relevantly Have carefully crafted questions Get your subject comfortable by finding common ground. Make eye-contact Ask your zinger mid-interview Come prepared Insist on the truth, be firm and respectful Dress professionally Stay focused on what you’re after Use silence to your advantage, be slow to open your mouth

The Dn’ts of Interviewing Don’t: Fidget with your equipment, or forget to hit the “record” button Let them dominate the interview Let untrue statements ride Try to entrap them, or get them to say something untrue Agree or disagree with them, argue Fawn over them, flatter them Ask questions that have yes or no answers Lose track of time, let it go long Wander off topic, ramble, chat

The Art of the Interview Get a read on your subject: Are they: annoyed, boastful, exhausted, cynical,angry, proud, defensive, bored? Ask clear, uncluttered questions. One idea per ? It’s not about you: Avoid showing off how much you know. It’s about them. Build up slowly for music interviews, get to the point for news Ask open ended questions: “What were you setting out to do?” Don’t pressure them to divulge personal information they’re not comfortable telling you. Avoid cliches like, “So, when did you start playing the guitar” Do your homework: Know what they’ve done: read, listen, research. They will appreciate it. Relax. If you’re relaxed, they’ll be relaxed. It’s not about you.

News Interview Questions What happened? Why did you/they do that? Your critics (name them) say you are (assertion), how do you respond? What do you think of this (main topic)? How did you…? Tell me about the time when you…? What is ahead for you/this issue?

Controlling the Conversation You are in control, don’t give them the mic If they wander, bring them back to focus If they don’t answer to your satisfaction, ask again, and again, third time, forget it. Don’t give out your questions ahead of time Do tell them the basic scope of the interview

Avoiding Recording Gaffes Tell them you need a quiet space. Turn off computers, fans, fridge, air conditioning, phones, and other noise-makers Get close to avoid echo Find a room with lots of cushy furniture Close windows to screen traffic noise, voices. Take five minutes before the interview to test your recording gear, set up, check batteries. Make a test recording Record 2 minutes of room ambience before either of you speak Keep one eye on your levels, always use headphones

Great Music Interview Q’s What motivated you in the early days? What moment constituted a breakthrough for you? So, what will you do now? Who were some of the songwriters who inspired you? When you look back, how do you see your development as a musician and composer? What kind of music do you see yourself making?

Cliches we’ve all heard before So, which do you write first: music or lyrics? Where are your touring these days? When did you start playing music? How does it feel to be famous? How long has your band been together? What’s your favorite place to play?

Tricks for Connecting Look around the room. Comment on their art, photos, drawings. Do you share a hobby? Do they cook? Play sports? Do you? Be relaxed, personable, professional. Find some common ground, explain that in radio no one can see them. Explain why you are doing the interview Joke around while setting up gear