1. Interviewing for Information
Steve Wood
TCCC

2. 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

3. A Successful Information Interview
An information interview is one in which the purpose is for one of the individuals involved to gain needed information.

4. Step One: Preparation
Be clear on the purpose and content of the interview.
Know the subject.
Make a list of questions
Arrange the setting

5. Types of Questions Factual vs. opinion Open vs. closed
Direct vs. indirect
Primary vs. secondary
Neutral vs. leading
Hypothetical

6. 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.

7. Step Three: Get Answers
Listen
Use prompting techniques
Use paraphrasing
Be curious

8. 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.