Giving an interview

Record the interview with a cell phone app or tape recorder. You’ll need to take fewer notes if you record, which will allow you to better engage the interviewee. If you plan on recording the conversation, ask the interviewee if they mind first, and be sure to note when you turn on the device.

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  Test your device before the interview to avoid technical glitches.
  

Variation: Keep in mind some people may speak less or feel anxious about being recorded. If they seem uncomfortable or don’t want to be recorded, take thorough notes instead. Just make sure taking notes doesn’t distract you from the conversation.
Start with simple background questions to establish a relationship. After introducing yourself, ask 2 or 3 simple, matter-of-fact questions. For instance, confirm their title or the spelling of their name, or touch on their education or hobbies.

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  Easy, straightforward questions can help you establish a rapport with the interviewee.
  
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  While asking soft questions up front is generally the best strategy, sometimes getting straight to the point is preferable. For instance, if you only have a few minutes to talk to a politician or businessperson with a tight schedule, it’s better to skip right to meatier questions.
  

Move on to the more substantial or difficult questions. To dig into the topic, ask open-ended questions, which invite a free response instead of a simple “yes” or “no.” Even when you’re covering a complex topic, be sure to pose short, focused questions instead of convoluted, multi-part ones.

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  For instance, break up a run-on question such as “When did you first decide to become a vet, what factors led to your decision, and what aspect of your profession continues to inspire you the most?”
  
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  If you’re asking about a sensitive subject, remember to keep your tone respectful and professional. For example, “How do you respond to allegations of illegal chemical dumping?” is objective, while “What do you have to say about how your company poisons our water?” is combative.
  

Ask follow-up questions to clarify their statements. Listen carefully to their responses and ask yourself if anything seems vague or unclear. Instead of making assumptions about what they mean, ask them to elaborate or provide an example.

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  Ask, for instance, “Could you explain what you meant by that,” “How do you know that,” “Can you give me an example,” and “Can you tell me more about that?”
  
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  You can also say, “It sounds like you’re saying,” then summarize their statement in your own words, and ask “Is that a fair summary?”
  
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  Ask follow-up questions, but remember to control the conversation’s flow. Move on if you’re short on time and still need to ask key questions.
  

Propose counter-examples, but don’t argue. Rather than accept their statements at face value, ask them to address alternatives. Mention a differing opinion or piece of evidence, then ask for their take. See if their perspective changes or if they clarify their views.

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  Remember to stay objective and professional. Don’t offer your opinion or try to convince them to accept your views.
  
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  For instance, say “How do you respond to the city council president’s statements on the city budget?” instead of just arguing that their budget plan is misguided.
  

Conclude the conversation by thanking the interviewee. Thank them for their time, and remind them when and where they can expect to see the published interview or article. You should also ask if you can follow up via phone or email if you have any further questions.

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  Additionally, before you part ways, make sure they’ve signed any releases or other documentation required by your publication.
  

Responding to Interview Questions

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