Interview Techniques

Definition

Interview techniques are the methods and strategies used to effectively communicate with subjects in order to elicit meaningful responses and insights during the documentary filmmaking process. These techniques are crucial for building rapport, fostering trust, and guiding the conversation to uncover deeper narratives that enhance storytelling in documentaries.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Effective interview techniques help establish a comfortable environment for subjects, making them more likely to share personal stories and experiences.
2. Using open-ended questions is essential because they allow subjects to express themselves fully rather than giving simple yes or no answers.
3. Active listening is crucial in interviews as it demonstrates respect for the subject's perspective and encourages a more genuine conversation.
4. Follow-up questions can reveal deeper layers of information, prompting interviewees to explore their thoughts and feelings in greater detail.
5. The overall tone and body language of the interviewer can significantly impact the quality of the responses received, as subjects often mirror the interviewer’s demeanor.

Review Questions

• How do interview techniques contribute to building rapport with documentary subjects?
  • Interview techniques such as active listening and using open-ended questions contribute significantly to building rapport with documentary subjects. When an interviewer actively listens and responds thoughtfully, it shows the subject that their voice matters. This fosters a sense of trust, encouraging subjects to share more personal stories and insights that can enhance the documentary's narrative.
• In what ways can follow-up questions enhance the depth of information gathered during interviews?
  • Follow-up questions can enhance the depth of information gathered during interviews by prompting subjects to elaborate on their initial responses. This technique allows interviewees to explore their thoughts and emotions more thoroughly, revealing nuances in their experiences that may not have surfaced initially. As a result, follow-up questions lead to richer narratives that add complexity and authenticity to the documentary storytelling process.
• Evaluate the importance of non-verbal communication in interview techniques and its impact on the quality of responses from subjects.
  • Non-verbal communication plays a crucial role in interview techniques, significantly impacting the quality of responses from subjects. The interviewer's body language, facial expressions, and eye contact can create an atmosphere of openness or discomfort. A positive non-verbal approach, such as maintaining eye contact and nodding in understanding, encourages subjects to feel safe and valued, leading to more candid and insightful responses. This evaluation highlights that effective communication goes beyond words; it encompasses the entire interaction between interviewer and subject.

Related terms

Open-ended Questions: Questions that allow subjects to elaborate and provide detailed answers, promoting a more natural and informative dialogue.

Active Listening: The practice of fully concentrating, understanding, responding, and remembering what the interviewee says to create a more engaging and responsive conversation.

Follow-up Questions: Questions that build on the interviewee's previous answers, encouraging them to expand on their thoughts and share additional insights.