Interview

Definition

An interview is a conversation between a journalist and a source, conducted to gather information, quotes, and insights for a story. It's a crucial tool in the reporting process, enabling writers to develop a deeper understanding of their subjects, uncover unique perspectives, and create engaging narratives. Conducting interviews effectively involves asking open-ended questions, actively listening, and building rapport to encourage candid responses.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Interviews can be conducted in various formats including face-to-face, over the phone, or via video calls, each offering unique benefits and challenges.
2. Preparation is key for successful interviews; this includes researching the interviewee's background and formulating relevant questions in advance.
3. Active listening during an interview helps journalists capture nuanced responses and can lead to follow-up questions that reveal more depth.
4. The pacing of an interview can significantly affect its outcome; taking time to explore topics thoroughly can yield richer content.
5. Establishing a comfortable environment for the interviewee promotes openness and leads to more engaging and insightful discussions.

Review Questions

• How does the technique of asking open-ended questions enhance the quality of information gathered during an interview?
  • Asking open-ended questions encourages interviewees to share their thoughts and experiences in detail rather than simply providing yes or no answers. This technique fosters a more dynamic conversation where the source can express opinions and insights that may not have been anticipated. By creating space for elaboration, journalists can uncover unique stories or perspectives that add depth to their articles.
• In what ways does establishing rapport with an interviewee impact the effectiveness of an interview?
  • Building rapport with an interviewee is vital for ensuring they feel comfortable sharing their thoughts openly. When there’s a level of trust established, sources are more likely to provide candid responses and share personal anecdotes that enrich the story. This connection can also lead to unexpected revelations during the conversation, enhancing the overall quality of the content gathered.
• Evaluate how balancing pacing during an interview influences the narrative structure of the resulting article.
  • Balancing pacing during an interview directly affects how engaging the narrative will be in the resulting article. A slow pace allows for thoughtful exploration of topics, leading to richer content and potential new angles for storytelling. Conversely, if pacing is rushed, important details may be overlooked, resulting in a surface-level article that lacks depth. By carefully managing pacing, journalists can ensure their narratives are both informative and captivating.

Related terms

source: A person or document that provides information or insights relevant to a story, often interviewed by journalists.

open-ended questions:

Questions designed to encourage detailed responses rather than simple yes or no answers, allowing for deeper exploration of topics.

rapport: A positive and trusting relationship established between the interviewer and the interviewee, which can lead to more honest and open communication.