CPJ gala honors five journalists and sets fundraising record Malaysia PM urges fair pay for journalists amid low wages Kashmir Times raid draws concern over media pressure Tunisian journalists protest rising media restrictions Samoa PM bars Samoa Observer in escalating media dispute Asia sees rising press freedom risks amid China-style controls Thai indictment of journalist sparks cross-border press freedom concerns Thai court indicts Australian journalist over defamation New study shows alarming decline in press freedom in Pakistan Shahzeb Khanzada faces lawsuit threat in Canada over video CPJ gala honors five journalists and sets fundraising record Malaysia PM urges fair pay for journalists amid low wages Kashmir Times raid draws concern over media pressure Tunisian journalists protest rising media restrictions Samoa PM bars Samoa Observer in escalating media dispute Asia sees rising press freedom risks amid China-style controls Thai indictment of journalist sparks cross-border press freedom concerns Thai court indicts Australian journalist over defamation New study shows alarming decline in press freedom in Pakistan Shahzeb Khanzada faces lawsuit threat in Canada over video
Logo
Janu
Asia

The ultimate guide to conducting interviews like a pro

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published last year

Join our WhatsApp channel

The ultimate guide to conducting interviews like a pro

Conducting interviews is a critical skill in journalism, HR, and various professional fields. Mastering this skill can significantly enhance the quality of your interactions and the information you gather. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you conduct interviews like a pro.

Preparation is Key
Research Thoroughly
Before the interview, research the subject or interviewee extensively. Understand their background, recent activities, and relevant context to formulate insightful questions. Well-prepared questions demonstrate professionalism and respect for the interviewee's time and expertise.

Prepare Your Questions
Craft open-ended questions that encourage detailed responses. Avoid yes/no questions and focus on questions that begin with "how," "why," or "what." Structure your questions logically, starting with broader topics and narrowing down to specifics.

Setting the Stage
Choose the Right Environment
Select a quiet, comfortable location free from distractions. Ensure the setting is conducive to a smooth conversation, whether it's a face-to-face meeting or a virtual interview.

Test Your Equipment
If conducting a virtual interview, test your equipment beforehand. Ensure your internet connection is stable, and check your audio and video settings. A technical glitch can disrupt the flow of the interview and affect the quality of the recording.

During the Interview:
Build Rapport
Start with small talk to put the interviewee at ease. A relaxed interviewee is more likely to provide candid and insightful responses. Show genuine interest in their answers and maintain eye contact.

Listen Actively
Active listening is crucial. Pay close attention to the interviewee's responses, and be prepared to ask follow-up questions based on their answers. This demonstrates engagement and can uncover deeper insights.

Stay Neutral and Objective
Maintain a neutral tone and avoid expressing your opinions or judgments. Your goal is to gather information, not to debate or persuade. Keep the focus on the interviewee and their perspective.

Post-Interview Steps:
Review Your Notes and Recording
Immediately after the interview, review your notes and any recordings. Highlight key points and quotes while the conversation is still fresh in your mind. This will make the analysis and writing process smoother.

Follow Up
Send a thank-you note to the interviewee, expressing appreciation for their time and insights. This helps build professional relationships and opens the door for future interactions.

Handling Common Challenges:
Managing Difficult Interviewees
Stay calm and composed if the interviewee is uncooperative or evasive. Politely steer the conversation back to your questions, and be patient. Sometimes, rephrasing a question can elicit a better response.

Dealing with Technical Issues
If technical issues arise, address them promptly and professionally. Have a backup plan in place, such as an alternative communication method or a rescheduled interview slot.

By following these tips and techniques, you can conduct interviews that are professional, insightful, and productive. Whether you're a journalist, an HR professional, or in any field that requires interviewing, mastering this skill will significantly enhance the quality of your work.

Read Next

How social media stars shape consumer behavior

How social media stars shape consumer behavior

 October 26, 2024: Explore how influencers are reshaping consumer behavior in the digital age. Learn about their impact on purchasing decisions, brand loyalty, and how businesses leverage their reach to drive sales.

Newsroom
CPJ gala honors five journalists and sets fundraising record

CPJ gala honors five journalists and sets fundraising record

 November 21, 2025 CPJ honored five courageous journalists at its 2025 Press Freedom Awards in New York, raising a record $2.925 million to support global reporting under threat.


Malaysia PM urges fair pay for journalists amid low wages

Malaysia PM urges fair pay for journalists amid low wages

 November 21, 2025 Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim urges fair pay for journalists, highlighting low wages and promising government action to improve media workers’ financial conditions


Kashmir Times raid draws concern over media pressure

Kashmir Times raid draws concern over media pressure

 November 21, 2025 CPJ urges authorities in Jammu and Kashmir to return seized Kashmir Times property and clarify the legal basis for a newsroom raid that raises fresh press freedom concerns.


Tunisian journalists protest rising media restrictions

Tunisian journalists protest rising media restrictions

 November 21, 2025 Tunisian journalists protest rising media restrictions, warning of growing pressure as work permit bans, delays, and prosecutions intensify concerns over press freedom.


Samoa PM bars Samoa Observer in escalating media dispute

Samoa PM bars Samoa Observer in escalating media dispute

 November 20, 2025 Samoa’s prime minister has barred the Samoa Observer from Cabinet briefings, sparking condemnation from journalists and regional media groups over rising threats to press independence.


Popular Stories