Outline and thesis statement for my research paper

Instructions for the Interview

Step 1

Be prepared with a list of questions or topics you want to cover. Be sure your questions are neat and organized for quick reference.

Step 2

Arrive on time or a few minutes early, whether the interview is in person or over the phone. Your subject is being gracious by sharing his time with you, and you should respect his schedule by being prompt and efficient.

Step 3

Begin the interview with a minute or two of small talk, to help you get acquainted with the interview subject, and to set her at ease. This step is especially critical if the two of you have never met before.

Step 4

If you’re using a tape recorder, be sure the interviewee knows about it. Ask for permission. However, once the interview starts, set the recorder in an inconspicuous place. Some people get nervous or self-conscious when they are constantly confronted with a tape recorder.

Step 5

Stick to your pre-written questions and notes as much as possible. However, if the conversation naturally flows into an area you hadn’t planned but the material is something you might be able to use, don’t be in too much of a hurry to steer in back on course. The most interesting answers in an interview are often in response to questions that were never asked.

Step 6

It’s best not to take exhaustive notes during the interview. Instead, try to maintain as much eye contact with the interviewee as possible. Establishing a connection with the person you’re interviewing is one of the secrets to a great interview.

Step 7

Sit down at your computer as soon as possible after the interview, play back the tape, and take comprehensive notes. Write down anything and everything that you think might be important. There will be plenty of time later to cut, rearrange, and revise.

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