Funnel approach

Definition

The funnel approach is a method used in interviews where questions start broad and gradually become more specific. This technique helps interviewers gather a wide range of information before narrowing down to key details, making it easier to understand the subject's perspective and uncover deeper insights.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The funnel approach begins with broad, open-ended questions to create a comfortable environment for the interviewee.
2. As the interview progresses, the questions become more targeted, allowing the interviewer to focus on specific issues or themes.
3. This technique helps interviewers uncover valuable insights that might not surface with a direct questioning style.
4. Using the funnel approach can lead to more engaging interviews, as respondents feel encouraged to express their thoughts freely before narrowing down to specifics.
5. It is important to adapt the funnel approach based on the flow of conversation and the responses given by the interviewee.

Review Questions

• How does the funnel approach enhance the quality of information gathered in an interview?
  • The funnel approach enhances information quality by allowing interviewers to begin with broad questions that encourage open dialogue. This creates a relaxed atmosphere for respondents, making them more likely to share detailed insights. As the conversation progresses, narrowing the focus helps the interviewer zero in on important details, leading to richer and more nuanced responses.
• In what ways can using closed-ended questions affect the effectiveness of the funnel approach during an interview?
  • Using closed-ended questions can hinder the effectiveness of the funnel approach by limiting respondents' answers and reducing opportunities for expansive discussion. While these types of questions can be useful for gathering specific data points, they can also stifle deeper insights that emerge from open-ended inquiries. To maintain the funnel's effectiveness, it's crucial to balance closed-ended questions with broader ones that promote elaboration.
• Evaluate how adapting the funnel approach based on an interviewee's responses can lead to more successful outcomes in qualitative research.
  • Adapting the funnel approach according to an interviewee's responses allows researchers to tailor their questioning strategy in real-time, which can significantly enhance interview outcomes. By being responsive to cues from the respondent, interviewers can dive deeper into topics of interest and clarify uncertainties through probing questions. This flexibility not only enriches data collection but also fosters rapport between interviewer and respondent, leading to more meaningful insights and a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.

Related terms

Open-ended questions: Questions that allow for a wide range of responses, encouraging detailed answers rather than simple yes or no replies.

Closed-ended questions: Questions that limit responses to specific options, often requiring a simple affirmative or negative answer.

Probing questions: Follow-up questions designed to elicit more detail or clarification from a respondent about their previous answers.