Hostile interviewee

Definition

A hostile interviewee is an individual who reacts negatively during an interview, often displaying anger, defensiveness, or aggression. This type of interviewee can pose significant challenges for journalists, as their emotional responses may hinder the flow of conversation and complicate the gathering of information.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hostile interviewees may come from various backgrounds and can be affected by the topic being discussed or their personal experiences.
2. Establishing rapport before engaging in tough questions can sometimes reduce hostility and encourage a more open dialogue.
3. Active listening is essential when dealing with hostile interviewees, as it shows respect and may help de-escalate tension.
4. Using open-ended questions can allow hostile interviewees to express themselves more fully, which may lead to a calmer conversation.
5. Maintaining a calm demeanor and demonstrating empathy can help journalists navigate interactions with hostile interviewees effectively.

Review Questions

• How can establishing rapport assist in managing a hostile interviewee during an interview?
  • Establishing rapport is crucial when dealing with a hostile interviewee as it helps create a sense of trust and understanding. When an interviewee feels comfortable and respected, they may be less likely to react defensively or aggressively. A strong connection allows for more open communication, which can lead to more productive conversations, even on sensitive topics.
• What techniques can journalists use to de-escalate a situation when facing a hostile interviewee?
  • Journalists can employ several techniques to de-escalate tensions with hostile interviewees. Active listening is important as it demonstrates that the journalist values the interviewee's perspective. Additionally, maintaining a calm demeanor while using empathetic language can help diffuse anger. Open-ended questions encourage the interviewee to express their feelings without feeling cornered, which can further ease hostility.
• Evaluate the impact of emotional intelligence on effectively interviewing hostile individuals and how it shapes the overall outcome.
  • Emotional intelligence plays a vital role in effectively interviewing hostile individuals because it enables journalists to recognize their own emotions as well as those of the interviewee. By being aware of emotional cues and responding appropriately, journalists can adapt their approach to create a more constructive dialogue. This adaptability can lead to better outcomes in terms of information gathering, as a more understanding environment may prompt the hostile interviewee to share valuable insights they might otherwise withhold.

Related terms

defensive behavior: A reaction characterized by protecting oneself from perceived threats or criticism, often leading to resistance in communication.

rapport building: The process of establishing a positive and trusting relationship with an interviewee, which can ease tensions and improve communication.

emotional intelligence: The ability to understand and manage one's own emotions and the emotions of others, crucial for handling challenging interactions.