Tips for Interviewing

PRE-INTERVIEW: The pre-interview is designed to identify interesting areas for an

interview. Use your “story radar” to find areas of special interest, or intriguing aspects of

the life story of your interview subject. Everybody has something interesting they can

talk about – your job is to find it!

YOUR VOICE: You need to figure out if your questions are going to be in the final

product. If Yes, make sure your voice is recorded. If No, make sure people phrase their

answers as full statements that don’t need your question to be understood.

LOCATION: Find a quiet location and minimize background noise, especially music,

annoying background hums or anything that will compete for attention with your

interviewee’s voice.

WRITTEN QUESTIONS: Go into the interview knowing what you need. Have questions

written down, but don't consult your list too often or you will lose rapport with your

Interviewee.

LISTEN: Stay in the moment. If you hear something that feels like a key to something

deeper or better, ask them to continue or tell you more. Sometimes “why” or “can you

explain that” is the best approach. Be tuned in to when someone is not giving you

anything new. It's up to you to move on or dig more.

MAINTAIN EYE CONTACT AND GIVE NON-VERBAL AFFIRMATION: no sounds

from you!

YOU NEED TO DIRECT THINGS: Don’t let them run away with the interview – stop

them politely if they are going on and on about something you aren’t going to need. Don't

be afraid to ask someone to rephrase for either an incomplete answer, or condensing an

answer that is too convoluted.

SILENCE IS OKAY: Don’t be afraid to wait for an answer. Don’t jump on their last

word when they finish a statement.

KEEP IT SPECIFIC: One way to get people going is to ask them to “tell a story” or

“relive” an event. Real, specific experiences resonate more than opinions or vague

Statements.