Journalistic interviews are not a conversation. Both parties are aware that it is an interview. Conversation can get away from the point.
The interview is for a specific purpose - and both parties should know what the purpose is. Keep the point of the interview in your mind at all times - as you would re the theme when writing an article. Remember, the interview should always be in the control of the interviewer.
Making contact - by email or phone? It is better to write rather than phone. Phoning can put people on the spot as they often feel they have to give an immediate response. Writing gives them time to think about it.
In your message you should:
- Identify yourself (and your publication).
- Mention what you intend to ask questions about.
- Suggest a meeting place and two or three times and dates - or ask them to suggest a time.
- Request confirmation, perhaps by phone.
By telephone: If you make the initial contact by phone always have a list of questions ready as they may suggest doing it there and then. If you want only factual information it's easier to get it by phoning. You don't really need to interview the person.
- Don't use the phone for in-depth interviews.
- Practice ahead of time what you are going to say - write it down.
- If time is pressing and you have a deadline, or if the interviewee is available for only a few days, it would be better to phone. But, if possible, make your approach through a third party, saying "Your manager/agent/press office/a mutual aquaintance (name them) gave me your number. This shows you have already been vetted by someone responsible.
The Face-to-face Interview - Before You Go:
- Research: Know your subject beforehand. Get as much information in your head about his or her books, work, films, etc.
- Questions: Most people prefer to have a list of questions and stick to it, making the interviewee stick to it too. Others prefer to chat about whatever comes along. This gives a more natural presentation of the person but can lead to too many generalities and not enough specifics.The best way is probably to make a list of half a dozen important questions and return to them throughout the conversation.
- Controversial topics: If you have negotiated what you are going to talk about, and they have agreed, you can ask almost any question you like on that topic. They can always refuse to answer. Remember that the unasked question cannot be answered.
Very Important: Open Ended Questions
Always ask open ended questions i.e. those to which it is impossible to answer with one word. For example: "How frightened were you?" is better than "Were you frightened?" Ask HOW?, WHAT?, WHY?, WHEN? (Remember this when making up your list of questions..)
