SETTING UP THE INFORMATION INTERVIEW

Avoid “cold-calls” if possible (Find a lead.)

Email vs. phoning vs. in-person.

Generally best to use email first, then follow-up phone call if needed to make appointment.

Explain topic.

Explain why you are coming to them.

Set parameters for interview

· Schedule date and time.

· How long.

· Format (tape record?)

Thank them.

THE INTERVIEW ITSELF

Prepare your questions ahead of time.

Sequence your questions:

Go from simple, “closed” questions (easy, factual)

to more complex, difficult, open-ended questions.

Don’t start with “controversial” material with which they might be

uncomfortable.

Be familiar with your questions.

DON’T just read them. Make it feel more like a conversation.

Be an ACTIVE listener.

Follow-up questions.

Repeat something they’ve said and use it as a segue to the next

question.

Thank them right away. Restate what kind of project you’re working on.

Think about body language.

Take notes (even if tape recording).

Should you tape record?

If it’s OK with interviewee.

Covers you in case you’ve missed something.

BUT you should still take notes. Otherwise you’re just postponing the

work.

Don’t be afraid to ask clarifying questions—interviewee will appreciate.

What to do if interviewee goes on too long or drifts off topic?

Find a way to restate what they’ve said, and circle it back to your

intended topic.

What to do if interviewee is perfunctory with answers?

Find a way to get them to elaborate by stressing the human dimension

(“So how does that feel for a person in that situation?” “Can

you give me an example of that kind of situation to let me see how that would work?”).

Focus on open-ended questions.

Ask them a classic wrap-up question: if there’s anything else they think you

should know about the subject.

Thank them again. Offer to show them the results of your work.

AFTER THE INTERVIEW

Look over your notes ASAP, and call/email them if you see any

misinformation.

Write up your notes in complete sentences ASAP, carefully distinguishing

between direct quotes and paraphrases.

Send them a thank-you card or email. Maintain good relations! (You never

know.)

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