Pre-interview preparation

Definition

Pre-interview preparation is the process of gathering information, developing questions, and organizing thoughts before conducting an interview. This crucial step helps to ensure that the interviewer is well-equipped to guide the conversation, establish rapport, and elicit meaningful responses from the interviewee. Thorough preparation allows journalists to anticipate challenges and formulate strategies to address them during the interview.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Effective pre-interview preparation can significantly enhance the quality of the information gathered during an interview, making it more productive and insightful.
2. Preparation involves not only researching the interviewee's background but also understanding the broader context surrounding the topic being discussed.
3. A well-prepared interviewer is better able to adapt their questions on the fly, responding to the interviewee’s answers and digging deeper into relevant topics.
4. Anticipating potential challenges or difficult questions can help interviewers remain composed and navigate sensitive subjects more effectively.
5. Utilizing tools such as outlines or notes can help organize thoughts and ensure that key points are covered during the interview.

Review Questions

• How does effective pre-interview preparation impact the outcome of an investigative interview?
  • Effective pre-interview preparation directly impacts the outcome of an investigative interview by enabling the interviewer to approach the conversation with confidence and clarity. When an interviewer is well-informed about the subject and has developed relevant questions, they can engage more meaningfully with the interviewee. This preparedness helps in building rapport, which is essential for eliciting honest and detailed responses, ultimately leading to a more successful interview.
• Discuss how background research contributes to pre-interview preparation and its importance in investigative reporting.
  • Background research is a fundamental component of pre-interview preparation because it provides essential context about the interviewee and the subject matter. By understanding the history, motivations, and circumstances surrounding the topic, journalists can ask more targeted and insightful questions. This depth of knowledge not only enriches the conversation but also demonstrates professionalism, making interviewees more likely to open up and share valuable information during the interview.
• Evaluate how pre-interview preparation methods can influence ethical considerations in investigative reporting.
  • Pre-interview preparation methods significantly influence ethical considerations in investigative reporting by ensuring that interviews are conducted fairly and respectfully. A well-prepared interviewer who understands the context of their questions is less likely to inadvertently misrepresent facts or manipulate conversations. Moreover, being equipped with knowledge allows journalists to approach sensitive topics with care, minimizing potential harm to subjects while upholding journalistic integrity. This conscientious approach fosters trust between journalists and sources, leading to more ethical reporting outcomes.

Related terms

Background Research: The act of investigating a subject or individual in depth to gain context and insight that will inform the interview process.

Question Development: The process of crafting clear and relevant questions that will guide the interview and facilitate meaningful discussion.

Rapport Building: The practice of establishing a positive and trusting relationship with the interviewee to encourage openness and honesty during the conversation.