ABSTRACT

An interview is intentional conversation. But, as a journalistic convention, it has to be seen in its historical context. It is easy to imagine the interview as a natural, unproblematic activity. Sometimes a source will need reassuring that they are not opening themselves to attack by agreeing to be interviewed. To avoid drying up, some argue it is best to write down most of the crucial questions in a logical order and tick them off as the interview proceeds. A journalist should be conscious of the messages put out by their dress. Most interviewers stress that active listening is one of the most crucial skills. Reporters should be relaxed and flexible, ready to abandon their list of questions and follow up more interesting ideas as they emerge. When the interview is part of a feature investigation, it should similarly be written up as soon as possible and ideas for new interviews and issues to examine should be noted.