INTERVIEWS

GUIDELINES FOR CONDUCTING AN INTERVIEW

1. Request the privilege of an interview well in advance. Whether you make your request by phone or email, be sure to give the reason for the interview. Ask the person being interviewed to set the time, place, and length of the interview.
   
2. Know the subject matter of the interview so that you can ask intelligent questions and understand the interviewee's answers. Your knowledge of his or her particular field will help the discussion (i.e., do some research first).
   
3. Write out in advance a list of definite questions that will lead the interviewee to talk freely. Avoid embarrassing questions. If you mention a topic that is controversial, do not take a stand on the subject yourself.
   1. Ask open-ended questions (avoid yes/no questions).
   2. Do not ask questions you already know the answer to.
   3. Do not ask for definitions only - be sure and ask for examples from personal experience.
4. Conduct the interview as a conversation. Take only the notes you need to make sure that you get facts correctly, but do not slow the interview. If you quote the interviewee, ask his or her permission; then be sure that you quote accurately. If possible, tape the interview, but you must ask the interviewee for permission first (keep in mind that tape recorders make some people feel uncomfortable).
   
5. Write out the report of the interview, including your observations and impressions while it is fresh in your memory. Be accurate. Decide how you will record your interview and place it in your paper.
   1. Narrative and dialogue
   2. Questions and answers
   3. Within the context of the paper.
6. Remember that a good appearance, a pleasant and courteous manner, and a sincere attitude on your part will affect the interviewee favorably and aid the discussion.
   
7. Be sure to record the person's name accurately, as well as the date of the interview (for the Works Cited page).

INTERVIEW FORMAT FORM : you must fill this out and turn in with your paper