How to Interview Strangers

An interview is defined as a question and answer time, either face to face or over the phone. It may be needed to provide information for an article, background for a novel or technical input for a manual.

How to Prepare

Interviewing a stranger can be a daunting prospect, but if certain steps are followed, it is not difficult to do. Bear in mind that most people are excited about being interviewed and enjoy talking about their areas of expertise.

Set up the Interview

This can be done by phone, letter, fax or email depending on the person to be interviewed. The request can be put very simply. “Good morning Mr Smith. My name is Jane Jones and I’m putting together an article on alligators for our community paper... I’d like to interview you about your experiences as a alligator handler...”

Research the Topic

If interviewing a genetic expert, do some background research so as to have a basic grasp of the subject. Nothing looks worse than an ignorant interviewer. This applies to any subject.

Where to Interview

It is best to give the person a couple of options. The most common would be his home, his office or a neutral venue such as a coffee shop. Be careful to arrive on time or a couple of minutes early. Never be late.

What to Wear

Dress in keeping with the person being interviewed and the location. A tailored suit will not work on a sports field and a T-shirt won’t cut it in the office of a high-powered businessman.

Relax with Small Talk

Depending on the situation, a couple of minutes of chat about the weather or surroundings can relax both parties.

Questions

Prepare a list of about ten questions. Make sure they need a full reply, not just a yes or no answer. These should lead into other areas of discussion.

Taping an Interview

Always ask before taping an interview. A tape is an excellent back up when details are missed or a lot of information is shared.

You are in Charge

Remember to lead the conversation by asking questions and steering the interviewee in the right direction. Be prepared to redirect talk that is going off at a tangent.

Ending the Interview

When enough information has been shared, signal the end of the interview by shutting off the tape recorder and thanking them for their time and the interesting interview.

Photographs

If needed, it is best to take photographs at the end of the interview. The interviewee should be more relaxed at this time and this will show in the pictures. Try to avoid bland head and shoulder shots but look for action snaps – throwing a football or working at a desk for example. Take several shots to ensure a good, clear one.

Books have been written about the art of interviewing but by following the above rules, even a beginner can conduct a successful interview. Interviews can be very rewarding and are definitely the most social part of a writer’s life.