Interviewing Skills and Technique
You should use a variety of sources when researching a news story. Try the Internet, the library, and use an interview technique.
Interviewing sources or witnesses is an invaluable way to get first-hand information and news. Below are tips for conducting successful interviews:
• Be prepared - research the subject or topic before the interview
• Write at least 20 questions to ask the source
• Make an appointment and arrive on time dressed appropriately
• Remember to bring a pencil and paper
• Introduce yourself, and say something about where the article about the interview will appear
• Use good eye contact and speak clearly
• Double check dates and correct spelling of names
• Ask open-ended questions (minimize the number of questions that can be answered with a simple 'yes' or 'no') that allow the source to provide more information
• Don't ask negative questions
• Don't promise what will be printed
• Have a note-taking system
• Write only important details down
• Use abbreviations
• If you plan on taping the interview, ask the interviewee first!