Interviewing techniques

Definition

Interviewing techniques refer to the specific methods and strategies journalists use to effectively gather information and insights from sources during an interview. These techniques involve not only how questions are formulated but also how the interviewer interacts with the source to elicit detailed responses. Mastering these techniques is essential for on-the-scene reporting, as they help in building rapport, ensuring clarity, and ultimately obtaining reliable information.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Using open-ended questions encourages interviewees to provide more context and detailed information rather than short, factual answers.
2. Building rapport with sources can lead to more candid responses, making it easier for journalists to obtain valuable insights during an interview.
3. Non-verbal communication plays a significant role in interviewing; maintaining eye contact and using appropriate body language can foster a positive interview environment.
4. Active listening is crucial during interviews, as it ensures that the interviewer accurately understands the source's answers and can ask relevant follow-up questions.
5. Preparation is key; researching the subject beforehand allows interviewers to ask informed questions and engage more meaningfully with the interviewee.

Review Questions

• How do open-ended questions enhance the effectiveness of interviewing techniques?
  • Open-ended questions enhance the effectiveness of interviewing techniques by prompting interviewees to provide more elaborate responses. This encourages a dialogue rather than a simple Q&A format, allowing journalists to uncover richer narratives and deeper insights. By asking these types of questions, reporters can gain a better understanding of the subject's perspective, which is critical for accurate and comprehensive reporting.
• In what ways does active listening contribute to successful interviewing techniques?
  • Active listening contributes to successful interviewing techniques by ensuring that the interviewer fully comprehends what the source is saying, allowing for relevant follow-up questions. It helps in building trust between the interviewer and the source, encouraging openness and honesty in responses. When journalists demonstrate they are engaged and understanding, it often leads to more detailed information being shared.
• Evaluate the impact of preparation on the quality of interviews conducted by journalists.
  • Preparation significantly impacts the quality of interviews conducted by journalists as it enables them to ask informed and relevant questions that resonate with the interviewee. When journalists come prepared with background knowledge about the subject matter, they can create a more focused dialogue that fosters deeper discussion. This thorough preparation leads to stronger interviews that yield richer content, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of their reporting.

Related terms

open-ended questions: Questions that encourage detailed responses by allowing the interviewee to elaborate on their thoughts and feelings rather than simply providing a yes or no answer.

follow-up questions: Questions posed after an initial answer to clarify or probe deeper into the topic discussed, helping to gather more comprehensive information.

active listening: A communication technique that involves fully concentrating, understanding, and responding to what the interviewee is saying, which helps in building trust and gathering accurate information.