Interviewing techniques

Definition

Interviewing techniques are the methods and strategies used by reporters to gather information, insights, and narratives from individuals during interviews. These techniques involve building rapport, formulating questions, and actively listening to responses, allowing reporters to extract valuable information while fostering an environment of trust and openness.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Successful interviewing requires establishing a connection with the interviewee, making them feel comfortable to share their experiences and thoughts.
2. Using open-ended questions can lead to richer, more informative responses and often encourages interviewees to elaborate on their answers.
3. Interviewing techniques vary depending on the context and the subject; for example, interviewing a victim of a crime requires sensitivity and care.
4. Preparation is key; successful reporters research their subjects beforehand to ask informed questions that reflect an understanding of the topic.
5. Active listening is crucial in interviews; it helps reporters pick up on nuances in responses and may lead to unexpected insights.

Review Questions

• How do interviewing techniques enhance the quality of information gathered during investigative reporting?
  • Interviewing techniques enhance the quality of information gathered by enabling reporters to engage effectively with their subjects. By establishing rapport and using open-ended questions, reporters can encourage deeper insights and more comprehensive narratives. Active listening also plays a crucial role, as it allows reporters to understand the interviewee's context better and adapt their questions based on the responses given.
• What role does active listening play in effective interviewing techniques for investigative reporters?
  • Active listening is essential in effective interviewing techniques as it allows reporters to fully comprehend what the interviewee is communicating. This involves not just hearing words but also understanding emotions, nuances, and underlying messages. By demonstrating that they are truly engaged, reporters can foster a sense of trust that encourages interviewees to open up and share more detailed information.
• Evaluate the impact of preparation on the effectiveness of interviewing techniques used in investigative reporting.
  • Preparation significantly impacts the effectiveness of interviewing techniques by ensuring that reporters approach interviews with knowledge and context. When reporters research their subjects beforehand, they can formulate relevant questions that resonate with the interviewee's experiences. This preparation helps build credibility and rapport, making interviewees feel understood and valued, which ultimately leads to richer conversations and more insightful information.

Related terms

Active Listening: A communication technique that involves fully concentrating, understanding, responding, and remembering what the interviewee is saying.

Open-Ended Questions: Questions that encourage more detailed responses from the interviewee, allowing them to share their thoughts and feelings rather than just providing yes or no answers.

Follow-Up Questions: Questions asked after an initial response that delve deeper into the subject matter, helping to clarify or expand on the interviewee's thoughts.