To conduct an insightful interview you must be well-prepared having carried out thorough research, be focused on the topic, and be an attentive listener.
Interviewing is the heart of journalism. It is not just about asking questions; it is about listening and gathering the truth for your audience.
To help you master this essential skill, we have prepared a simple checklist to ensure your live interviews are professional and effective.
The list is based on the article ‘Introduction to interviewing‘ which we suggest you read BEFORE using the guide below.
How to conduct a journalistic interview:
- [ ] Know what you are talking about
Research your subject thoroughly before the meeting so you are well-prepared. You need to know the recent history of the story you are covering and your interviewees involvement in the story. - [ ] Know what you want to ask
Write a list of questions in advance to ensure you cover all the main points. Focus on the gaps in what is currently known. Your job is to fill those gaps. - [ ] Don’t complicate matters
Keep your questions short and simple to allow the interviewee more time to speak. There is nothing worse than a lengthy and complex question which results in a complicated answer. - [ ] Pay attention to what the interviewee is saying
Listen carefully to the answers instead of just thinking about your next question. There is an art to being prepared to change direction if necessary. - [ ] Stay alert for the unexpected
Be ready to ask extra questions if the interviewee says something unexpected or interesting. These are the questions you might not have thought through in advance. - [ ] Don’t lose your cool
Stay polite and respectful at all times, even if you are asking difficult questions. Some interview can become combative. Your job is to continue fact finding despite any distractions. - [ ] Keep your own views out of it
Focus on what your audience needs to know rather than your own personal interests. Interviewing is not about making you look clever. - [ ] Don’t give the interviewee the questions in advance
Do not show your questions to the interviewee before a live interview starts. You can tell them the areas you want to cover, but not the questions themselves. - [ ] Be transparent at every level
Explain who you are and where the story will be published. Make sure there is no room for an misunderstanding regarding the reasons you want the interview. - [ ] Make sure you check every detail
Check all your facts and names for accuracy before you finish. It’s essential you have their name and title.
A reminder that this checklist is based on the MHM article Introduction to interviewing‘. You might want to use it before you set off on your first interview.
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