Hostile interviewee

Definition

A hostile interviewee is someone who displays resistance, aggression, or negativity during an interview, making it difficult for the interviewer to obtain information. This type of interviewee may challenge questions, provide evasive answers, or express overt disdain for the interviewer or the subject matter. Understanding how to handle such interviewees is crucial for effective communication and successful information gathering.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hostile interviewees may react negatively due to stress, distrust, or previous experiences with media or authority figures.
2. Using active listening techniques can help de-escalate tension with hostile interviewees and encourage more open communication.
3. Establishing rapport and demonstrating empathy can be effective in managing hostility and improving the overall interview dynamic.
4. The tone and wording of questions can influence the response of a hostile interviewee; open-ended questions might yield better results than confrontational ones.
5. Preparation and knowledge about the interviewee can provide insights that help address their concerns and reduce hostility during the interaction.

Review Questions

• How can understanding the characteristics of a hostile interviewee improve the effectiveness of an interview?
  • Understanding the characteristics of a hostile interviewee allows the interviewer to adapt their approach to improve communication. Recognizing signs of hostility enables the interviewer to employ specific techniques like active listening or empathetic responses. This awareness helps create a more constructive atmosphere, potentially leading to more informative responses despite initial resistance.
• What strategies can an interviewer use to effectively manage a conversation with a hostile interviewee?
  • An interviewer can employ several strategies to manage a conversation with a hostile interviewee effectively. Building rapport at the beginning can set a positive tone, while asking open-ended questions encourages dialogue. Additionally, maintaining a calm demeanor and being patient in responses can help defuse tension, making it easier to navigate through difficult interactions and gather useful information.
• Evaluate the long-term impact of effectively handling hostile interviewees on future journalistic relationships and public perception.
  • Effectively handling hostile interviewees can significantly improve future journalistic relationships by establishing trust and credibility. When journalists demonstrate skill in managing difficult conversations, it can lead to more cooperative interactions down the line. This not only enhances the journalist's reputation but also positively influences public perception of the media as a whole, fostering an environment where open dialogue is encouraged rather than avoided.

Related terms

Defensive Interviewee: An interviewee who reacts to questions with protectiveness or reluctance, often leading to limited information sharing.

Interviewer Techniques: Strategies used by interviewers to facilitate effective communication and manage difficult dynamics during interviews.

Conflict Resolution: The process of resolving a dispute or conflict, often requiring negotiation and communication skills to address underlying issues.