6.3 Handling Difficult Interviews and Subjects
5 min read•july 30, 2024
Interviewing difficult subjects in sports journalism requires finesse and strategy. From uncooperative athletes to confrontational coaches, reporters must navigate challenging situations while maintaining professionalism and pursuing the story.
This section covers essential techniques for handling tough interviews. Learn how to prepare, use advanced questioning strategies, manage emotional situations, and address while respecting ethical boundaries and interviewee comfort levels.
Interviewing Uncooperative Subjects
Preparation and Tactics
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- Conduct thorough pre-interview research anticipates potential areas of resistance or evasion
- Recognize common used by interviewees (deflection, vague responses, changing the subject)
- Employ techniques identify inconsistencies or gaps in interviewee responses
- Utilize and encourage more detailed and specific answers
- Ask for clarification on vague statements
- Request concrete examples to support general claims
- Implement "" starts with broader, less threatening questions before narrowing to specific inquiries
- Begin with "What are your overall thoughts on the team's performance this season?"
- Gradually focus on more specific topics like "Can you elaborate on the decision to bench the starting quarterback?"
Advanced Strategies
- Develop repertoire of approach sensitive topics from different angles when faced with initial resistance
- If an athlete deflects questions about a recent controversy, reframe by asking about team morale or personal growth
- Understand as a tool encourages interviewees to elaborate on responses or fill information gaps
- Allow 3-5 seconds of silence after an incomplete answer prompts further explanation
- Utilize "bridging" technique connects interviewee's response back to original question
- "That's interesting, but how does it relate to the question about your contract negotiations?"
- Implement "echo" technique repeats key phrases from interviewee's response encourages expansion
- Interviewee: "It was a tough game." Interviewer: "A tough game. Can you elaborate on what made it particularly challenging?"
Handling Confrontational Situations
Emotional Regulation
- Recognize physiological signs of stress and emotional reactions in oneself during difficult interviews
- Increased heart rate, sweating, tension in muscles
- Develop techniques for maintain calm demeanor
- Practice (4-7-8 technique: inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 7, exhale for 8)
- Use turns negative thoughts into neutral or positive ones
- Understand importance of and tone of voice de-escalates tense situations
- Maintain open posture, avoid crossing arms or frowning
- Speak in a steady, measured tone avoids escalating tension
- Practice active empathy acknowledges interviewee's perspective without compromising
- "I understand this topic is frustrating for you. Can you help me understand your perspective better?"
De-escalation Techniques
- Implement strategies for redirecting confrontational behavior back to topic without engaging in arguments
- Use "bridging" statements: "I appreciate your feelings on this. Let's refocus on the original question about..."
- Develop mental toolkit of professional responses to common challenging scenarios
- Personal attacks: "I'm here to discuss the issue at hand, not personal matters."
- Attempts to derail interview: "That's an interesting point, but let's return to the main topic of our discussion."
- Recognize when to pause or terminate interview if situation becomes unproductive or potentially dangerous
- Set clear boundaries: "If we can't have a respectful conversation, we may need to end this interview."
- Utilize "fogging" technique acknowledges criticism without agreeing or disagreeing
- "You may be right that I don't understand everything about this situation. Can you explain it from your perspective?"
Addressing Sensitive Topics
Tactful Approaches
- Frame sensitive questions in neutral and non-judgmental manner
- Instead of "Why did you choke in the final game?" ask "Can you walk me through your experience of the final moments of the game?"
- Develop techniques for gradually approaching controversial topics
- Use "" prefaces difficult questions with context or softer inquiries
- Example: "The team has faced some challenges this season. How have these affected team dynamics?"
- Recognize cultural sensitivities and tailor language and approach accordingly when discussing controversial subjects
- Research cultural norms and taboos before international interviews
- Use culturally appropriate language and analogies
Ethical Considerations
- Utilize allow interviewees more control over how they address sensitive topics
- "How would you describe the impact of the recent scandal on the team?"
- Implement "" technique respectfully addresses interviewee's discomfort while maintaining focus on subject matter
- "I understand this is a difficult topic. How do you think it's affected your performance on the field?"
- Understand ethical considerations surrounding discussion of traumatic or deeply personal experiences in interviews
- Provide trigger warnings before discussing potentially traumatic events
- Offer breaks or option to skip certain questions
- Develop strategies for maintaining objectivity while showing appropriate empathy when discussing emotionally charged topics
- Use neutral language while acknowledging emotions: "This clearly evokes strong feelings. Can you explain why this is so significant to you?"
Recognizing Interviewee Boundaries
Legal and Ethical Considerations
- Understand legal and ethical boundaries surrounding interview subjects' right to privacy and consent
- Obtain clear consent for recording and publication of interview
- Respect requests for anonymity or
- Implement techniques for clarifying and confirming agreed-upon scope and limitations of interview before and during conversation
- Discuss and agree on off-limits topics beforehand
- Respect interviewee's right to decline answering specific questions
- Understand concept of "" information and ethical implications of using such information in reporting
- Clearly define what "off the record" means with interviewee
- Develop strategies for corroborating off-the-record information through other sources
Reading and Respecting Cues
- Develop skills in reading verbal and non-verbal cues indicate interviewee's discomfort or unwillingness to discuss certain topics
- Watch for signs of physical discomfort (fidgeting, avoiding eye contact)
- Listen for verbal cues (hesitation, change in tone, brief or evasive answers)
- Recognize potential impact of power dynamics between interviewer and interviewee on willingness to share information
- Be aware of potential intimidation when interviewing less experienced or younger athletes
- Understand how gender, race, or cultural differences may affect interview dynamics
- Develop strategies for respectfully probing reasons behind interviewee's reluctance to share certain information without applying undue pressure
- Ask open-ended questions about comfort level: "How do you feel about discussing this topic?"
- Offer alternative ways to address sensitive issues: "Would you be more comfortable discussing this in general terms rather than personal experiences?"
- Understand importance of building trust and rapport with interviewees encourages more open and honest communication within ethical boundaries
- Start with lighter, rapport-building questions before delving into more serious topics
- Show genuine interest in interviewee's perspective and experiences
Key Terms to Review (34)
Acknowledgment and Pivot: Acknowledgment and pivot refers to a communication strategy used during interviews, particularly when addressing difficult subjects or sensitive topics. This approach involves recognizing or validating the interviewee's feelings or statements before smoothly transitioning to a different question or topic, allowing the interviewer to maintain control of the conversation while showing empathy.
Active listening: Active listening is the process of fully concentrating, understanding, responding, and remembering what is being said during a conversation. This technique goes beyond simply hearing words; it involves engaging with the speaker through feedback and body language to create a deeper connection and ensure clear communication.
Bridging technique: The bridging technique is a strategic communication method used during interviews to transition from a difficult or uncomfortable topic to a more favorable or relevant one. This approach helps the interviewee regain control of the conversation while allowing the interviewer to guide the discussion toward key points. Mastering this technique is essential for handling challenging interviews effectively.
Cognitive dissonance: Cognitive dissonance refers to the mental discomfort or tension that arises when a person holds two or more contradictory beliefs, values, or ideas simultaneously. This phenomenon is significant when dealing with difficult interviews and subjects because it can impact how individuals respond to challenging questions, potentially leading to defensiveness or inconsistency in their responses as they try to reconcile conflicting thoughts.
Cognitive Reframing: Cognitive reframing is a psychological technique that involves changing the way a person perceives an event, allowing them to view it from a different perspective. This technique is particularly useful in stressful situations, such as difficult interviews or conversations, as it helps individuals shift their mindset and reduce negative emotions associated with those experiences. By changing how one thinks about a situation, cognitive reframing can lead to improved responses and interactions.
Confidentiality: Confidentiality refers to the ethical principle of keeping information private and protecting the identity of individuals involved in sensitive situations. In sports journalism, it plays a crucial role in fostering trust between journalists, athletes, coaches, and team officials, ensuring that personal or sensitive information is not disclosed without permission. This principle also intersects with issues of privacy, ethics, and the responsibility of journalists to maintain integrity in their reporting.
Controversial athletes: Controversial athletes are sports figures who attract significant public attention due to their actions, statements, or behavior that provoke debate or disagreement. These athletes often challenge societal norms, ignite discussions on various topics, and can polarize fans and critics alike. Handling interviews with such individuals requires a nuanced approach, as they may evoke strong emotions and differing opinions from the public.
Cushion method: The cushion method is a communication technique used during interviews to create a supportive environment that allows subjects to feel more comfortable discussing sensitive topics. This approach involves strategically using softening statements or gentle questions to ease into difficult subjects, helping to build rapport and trust between the interviewer and the interviewee. It serves as a way to reduce tension and encourage openness, making it easier to handle challenging discussions.
De-escalation techniques: De-escalation techniques are strategies used to reduce tension and prevent conflict from escalating into aggression or violence. These methods can be crucial during interviews with difficult subjects, helping journalists maintain control of the conversation while ensuring a productive dialogue. By employing active listening, empathy, and clear communication, journalists can create an environment that encourages cooperation and reduces the likelihood of hostility.
Deep breathing exercises: Deep breathing exercises are techniques that focus on taking slow, deliberate breaths to help calm the mind and body, promoting relaxation and reducing stress. These exercises are essential tools for handling high-pressure situations, such as difficult interviews or sensitive subjects in journalism, as they help maintain composure and clarity in communication.
Defensiveness: Defensiveness refers to a psychological reaction where an individual protects themselves from perceived threats, criticisms, or challenges. This behavior can manifest in various forms, such as denial, rationalization, or aggression, often hindering effective communication and understanding. In challenging situations, defensiveness can lead to barriers that prevent open dialogue and the resolution of conflicts.
Echo technique: The echo technique is a communication strategy used in interviews where the interviewer reflects or repeats back what the interviewee has said, often in a paraphrased form. This technique helps to clarify understanding, encourage further elaboration, and create a more open dialogue, especially when dealing with difficult subjects or sensitive topics.
Emotional Intelligence: Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognize, understand, and manage our own emotions while also being able to recognize and influence the emotions of others. This skill is crucial for building strong relationships, effective communication, and navigating difficult conversations. It encompasses self-awareness, empathy, and emotional regulation, all of which are essential when dealing with sensitive subjects or challenging interview scenarios.
Emotional Regulation: Emotional regulation refers to the ability to manage and respond to emotional experiences in a healthy and constructive way. This skill is crucial for individuals, especially in high-pressure situations like interviews, as it allows them to maintain composure, communicate effectively, and navigate challenging interactions with sensitivity and professionalism.
Empathetic questioning: Empathetic questioning is a technique used to foster understanding and connection by asking questions that reflect sensitivity to a person's feelings and experiences. This approach encourages open dialogue, allowing the interviewee to share their thoughts and emotions more freely, which is particularly important when handling challenging interviews or sensitive subjects.
Evasion tactics: Evasion tactics refer to strategies employed by individuals to avoid answering questions directly or to sidestep difficult subjects during interviews. These tactics can manifest in various ways, such as changing the topic, providing vague answers, or using humor to deflect attention. Understanding these tactics is crucial for effectively managing challenging interviews and ensuring that the interviewer can obtain the necessary information.
Fogging technique: The fogging technique is a method used in interviews to handle difficult subjects or contentious issues by acknowledging the validity of the other person's perspective without fully conceding the point. This approach allows the interviewer to create a non-confrontational atmosphere, encouraging open dialogue and reducing defensiveness. By employing this technique, journalists can navigate sensitive topics more effectively, fostering trust and promoting a more productive conversation.
Follow-up questions: Follow-up questions are inquiries made during an interview or conversation that seek to clarify, expand, or delve deeper into a previous response. These questions are crucial for gaining comprehensive insights and building rapport with the interviewee, allowing for a more engaging and informative dialogue.
Funnel technique: The funnel technique is a strategic interviewing method used to guide the conversation from broad, open-ended questions to more specific, detailed inquiries. This approach helps interviewers gather comprehensive information while allowing subjects to express themselves freely before narrowing down to crucial points. By starting wide and gradually honing in, the interviewer can build rapport and elicit more insightful responses, especially when dealing with sensitive or difficult subjects.
Hostility: Hostility refers to an unfriendly or antagonistic attitude that can arise during conversations, particularly in interviews. This negative behavior may manifest as defensiveness, aggression, or reluctance to engage openly, which can hinder effective communication and the gathering of information. Recognizing and managing hostility is crucial for interviewers to foster a more constructive dialogue and elicit meaningful responses.
Interview with Colin Kaepernick: An interview with Colin Kaepernick refers to discussions or dialogues involving the former NFL quarterback, primarily focused on his activism, particularly regarding social justice and racial inequality. This term is important because Kaepernick's interviews often tackle difficult subjects that provoke intense public reactions, making it essential for journalists to handle such situations with care and sensitivity.
Interview with Lance Armstrong: The interview with Lance Armstrong refers to the high-profile media conversations that took place after Armstrong's admission of doping in professional cycling. This interview is significant as it showcases how journalists handle difficult subjects, particularly when dealing with controversial figures who have complicated legacies. It also emphasizes the ethical considerations and emotional dynamics that arise during interviews with subjects who have faced serious allegations.
Journalistic integrity: Journalistic integrity refers to the adherence to ethical standards and principles in journalism, ensuring accuracy, fairness, and accountability in reporting. This concept is crucial as it builds trust between journalists and their audience, underpinning the credibility of the media in informing the public.
Leading questions: Leading questions are inquiries that suggest or imply their own answers, often steering the respondent toward a specific response. They can significantly impact the direction of an interview, especially in sports journalism, where they may influence how athletes or coaches perceive their experiences or opinions during discussions. Understanding how to utilize and avoid leading questions is crucial for effective interviewing and obtaining genuine responses from interview subjects.
Neutral body language: Neutral body language refers to a non-expressive and calm demeanor that avoids conveying strong emotions or opinions during communication. This type of body language can help to create a safe space for open dialogue, especially in sensitive or challenging conversations, allowing the interviewer to maintain control and encourage the interviewee to share more freely.
Off the record: Off the record refers to information shared during an interview or conversation that is not meant for publication or broadcast. This term is crucial in journalism, as it establishes a boundary for what can be reported, allowing sources to share sensitive insights without the risk of their words being publicly attributed to them. Understanding how and when to use off the record is essential for building trust with sources while navigating the complexities of difficult interviews and sensitive topics.
Open-ended questions: Open-ended questions are inquiries that allow for a full, meaningful response rather than a simple one-word or yes/no answer. They encourage the interviewee to share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in detail, fostering deeper conversations and insights during interviews.
Pre-interview preparation: Pre-interview preparation is the process of gathering information and developing a strategy before conducting an interview, aimed at ensuring the interviewer is well-equipped to handle various situations that may arise during the conversation. This involves researching the interviewee, understanding the context of the interview, and preparing questions that can navigate difficult topics or sensitive subjects effectively. Proper preparation can help build rapport and establish trust, making it easier to engage in open and honest dialogue.
Probing techniques: Probing techniques refer to the methods used by interviewers to elicit more detailed responses from subjects, especially during challenging interviews. These techniques help journalists gather deeper insights by encouraging the interviewee to elaborate on their thoughts and feelings, providing a richer narrative. Effective probing can lead to revealing information that may not surface through standard questioning.
Rapport building: Rapport building is the process of establishing a positive and trusting relationship between an interviewer and the subject, which facilitates open communication and a more effective exchange of information. This connection is crucial for creating a comfortable environment where subjects feel at ease to share their thoughts and experiences, especially in sensitive situations. When done well, rapport building enhances the quality of interviews by promoting honesty and engagement from the subject.
Reframing Strategies: Reframing strategies are techniques used to change the perspective or context of a difficult interview or subject, enabling the interviewer to manage the conversation more effectively. By shifting how a question or topic is perceived, a journalist can guide the discussion towards a more productive direction, minimizing conflict and encouraging openness. This approach not only helps in handling sensitive topics but also fosters a more constructive dialogue with interview subjects.
Sensitive topics: Sensitive topics refer to subjects that may evoke strong emotional responses or discomfort during discussions, often involving personal, social, or controversial issues. In the context of sports journalism, these can include matters such as mental health, injuries, personal tragedies, or sensitive allegations. Understanding how to approach these topics is crucial for maintaining trust and respect with interview subjects while gathering meaningful insights.
Transparency: Transparency in sports journalism refers to the practice of being open and honest about the processes, sources, and motives behind reporting. It establishes trust between journalists and their audience, as well as among athletes, coaches, and teams by clearly communicating intentions and acknowledging any biases or conflicts of interest.
Value of silence: The value of silence refers to the strategic use of pauses and quiet moments during interviews to encourage subjects to share more information or reflect on their thoughts. By creating a space where silence is present, interviewers can often elicit deeper responses and insights, as subjects may feel compelled to fill the void with their thoughts. This technique is particularly useful when dealing with difficult subjects or sensitive topics, where carefully timed silence can lead to more profound and honest dialogue.