How to Conduct an InterviewAdapted from Scholastic Kids Press Corps

Interviewing Like a Pro

0One of the hardest skills for a young reporter to master is interviewing. It takes preparation and persistence to conduct a good interview.

0Too many students want to “wing it” or think of questions as they go. This NEVER works out well.

0Research & preparation are the keys to a good interview.

0Simply follow the steps outlined in this PowerPoint to interview like a pro!

Step 1Research

0Research, Research, Research!0Then research some more.0The only way to come up with good questions is to

know everything there is to know about your subject.

Step 2Get Permission & be Polite

0Contact the person you wish to interview0Always be POLITE! Say “please” and “thank you”.0Ask the person if they would be willing to be

interviewed. If they agree, then set a time for the interview.

0Give them the topic or topics of the interview.

Step 3Write Questions

0Read over your research and brainstorm questions.0The more specific your questions are, the better!0Never ask questions that can be answered with a

simple yes or no. Make the interviewee talk!0Practice asking questions before you go to the

interview.0Don’t ask repetitive questions.

Step 4Prepare for Interview

0Always be prepared for the interview.0Practice Questions0For newsletter:

0 Pencil0 List of good questions0 Camera

0For newscast:0 Camera0 Tripod0 List of good questions

Step 5Be on Time

0Be on time!0Always be a few minutes early if possible.0Practice your questions while you wait.

Step 6Conduct Interview

0Conduct you interview in an organized, timely manner.

0During the interview:0 Be courteous/polite to your subject0 The interview should be Ask for an explanation of things

you don’t understand0 Try to avoid uncomfortable silences or pauses0 Look the person in the eye when asking questions0 Don’t ask a question that has already been answered

Step 6 Continued…

0Don’t read through the questions one right after another like you can’t wait to be finished. Once again, conduct your interview like a conversation. One question should lead naturally into another.

0Act like you are listening and care about what the interviewee is saying, even if you don’t.

Step 7Wrap up the Interview

0Always wrap up the interview. Don’t just let it end with an awkward silence or staring at the camera

0Always thank the person for talking to you!