INTERVIEWING

Most people do not have the interviewing skills of a seasoned professional. Yet you do not have to be a seasoned professional to conduct a decent interview—if you know what to do.

Because interviewing is not easy, you need to plan in advance for the interview session by doing research. During the interview, you need to avoid influencing the interviewee to mimic what you want to hear. You need to prepare yourself.

Interviewing offers several advantages. It enables you to gather a large volume of information over a short period and gives you insights into a topic that you would not ordinarily discover. It can also lead to further sources of information.

for Effective Interviewing

• Determine the goals and objectives that you want to achieve during the interview session.
• Collect as much background information prior to the session to familiarize yourself with the interviewee and the subject.
• Determine the approach to questioning (e.g., structured, unstructured).
• Set the date, time, and location far enough in advance for both you and the interviewee to prepare.
• Create a positive atmosphere, keeping the interview free from distractions, disruptions, and face offs.