ABSTRACT
The best interviewers make interviewing look easy. All interviewers have to do, say the cynics, is roll up to the designated place at the designated time, ask a list of questions, note down the answers and then write the interview up for their readers. Sally Adams, who inspired legions of journalism students during her long career, was interested in everyone she met – and as a result was a natural interviewer who could get almost anyone to talk to her. Virtually all journalists conduct interviews at some point during their careers. Subs, critics, columnists and editors rarely do interviews, admittedly, but many started out as news reporters or feature writers, where interviewing is a fundamental part of the job. Interviews take myriad different forms, however, so from the outset it's important to be clear about the kind of story reporter are covering -and the type of interview required. Doorstep interviews are among the most challenging parts of a journalist's job.
