ABSTRACT
Improving the formal interview process can aid us in our everyday interactions. The interview is an essential technique in gaining cultural knowledge because of its ability to allow the reader to learn from members about their interpretations and meanings. Method actors, like effective observers of culture, become adept at making observations. They also rely on informal interviews as part of rehearsal on stage. Motivating the interviewee is also important. This involves sharing the benefits of understanding culture and discussing possible ways that this information can be used to improve working conditions and/or organizational effectiveness. One of the best interviewing techniques is to remain silent while being nonverbally attentive and connected. This use of silence often encourages the interviewee to say more or to go into an answer more fully, revealing rich cultural information. As a general rule, it is best to rely on interviews, focus groups, and/or surveys after the readers have gathered data via textual analysis and/or observation.
