Pre-interview questions

Definition

Pre-interview questions are carefully crafted inquiries made by journalists before conducting an interview. These questions help establish the direction of the conversation, set the tone for the interview, and ensure that the journalist gathers relevant information to engage effectively with the interviewee. By considering these questions in advance, journalists can be better prepared to delve into deeper topics and create a more structured and informative dialogue.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Pre-interview questions allow journalists to create a roadmap for the interview, helping them cover all necessary topics without getting sidetracked.
2. They can also help build rapport with the interviewee, making them feel more comfortable and willing to share information.
3. These questions often include general inquiries that lead to specific topics, making it easier to transition into deeper discussions.
4. By preparing pre-interview questions, journalists can identify key themes or issues that are relevant to their audience, ensuring a more engaging interview.
5. Effective pre-interview questions can lead to more insightful and revealing answers during the actual interview.

Review Questions

• How do pre-interview questions impact the flow and effectiveness of a sports journalism interview?
  • Pre-interview questions significantly influence the flow of an interview by providing structure and direction. They help journalists stay focused on relevant topics while allowing for organic conversation. When prepared thoughtfully, these questions encourage the interviewee to open up, leading to richer insights and stories that resonate with the audience.
• Discuss how pre-interview questions can enhance a journalist's ability to engage with high-profile athletes or coaches during interviews.
  • When interviewing high-profile athletes or coaches, pre-interview questions become essential in establishing credibility and respect. By demonstrating knowledge about their careers and recent events, journalists can create a more engaging atmosphere. This preparation not only helps in building rapport but also encourages interviewees to share their thoughts candidly, enhancing the quality of the discussion.
• Evaluate the role of research in developing effective pre-interview questions for a sports journalism piece. How does this preparation affect the overall narrative?
  • Research plays a critical role in formulating effective pre-interview questions as it informs journalists about pertinent details related to the athlete or sporting event. This preparation allows journalists to craft questions that reflect current trends, controversies, or achievements that matter most to audiences. As a result, well-researched pre-interview questions not only enhance the quality of the responses but also contribute to a richer narrative that connects with readers on a deeper level.

Related terms

Interview Structure: The overall framework or organization of an interview, including the order of questions and how they guide the conversation.

Follow-up Questions: Questions posed during an interview based on responses from the interviewee, intended to gain deeper insights or clarify points.

Research: The process of gathering background information about the interviewee or topic to inform the questions and approach taken during an interview.