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ENG 223: Journalistic Writing

Week 10

Imagine that you are a journalist…you are assigned to your beat which is

the palace of Queen Rania of JordanHow do I prepare for this interview?

You want to get a SCOOP ( an exclusive story that no one else has

reported)

You are aiming for a PULITZER PRIZE

( an annual award given for excellence in journalism, literature

and the arts).

Executive Summary

CHAPTER 7: Interviewing Techniques

• Interviewing is a vital skill for any journalist.

• It is one of the most important ways to gather information and create content for a story.

• Good interview technique requires practice so don't expect to master it immediately.

Executive Summary• Sensitivity

Be sensitive to the person you will be interviewing

Public or private individual?

• Listening and Note-Taking Skills Do not concentrate so much on your notes

that you will miss out on the non-verbal expressions or gestures of the interviewee

• Tape Recorders: The Pros and Cons Ask the interviewee if he or she is comfortable

with having a tape recorder during the interview

Executive Summary• Listening Tips

Focus on the “hear” and now Practice conversational listening Do critical listening Be quiet Be responsive Listen to what isn’t said Listen with your eyes Be polite Block out personal intrusions Develop listening curiosity

Executive Summary• Note-taking Tips

Be prepared Concentrate Use key words Develop a shorthand Slow the pace Request repetition Make eye contact Make your margins or notebook covers Verify vital information

Executive Summary

• Note-taking Tips

Double-checkBe open-mindedUse a symbol systemStand and deliverSave your notesTranscribe notes only for

major stories

Executive Summary• Planning the Interview

Research the backgroundIdentify your goalsPlan your questionsRequest the interviewDress appropriatelyArrive on time

Executive Summary• Conducting the Interview

Start out by using icebreakersPut your questions in

nonthreatening orderAsk the basic questionsAsk follow-up questionsControl the interviewRepeat questionsAsk background questions

Executive Summary• Conducting the Interview

Ask about developmentsConstruct a chronologyRole-playAsk about pros and consAsk for definitionsVerify

Executive Summary• Conducting the Interview

Use the silent treatment Use the “blame others”

technique Handle emotional questions with

tact Ask summary questions Use the “matchmaker” technique Ask free-choice questions End on a positive note

Thank you for listening and enjoy the rest of the day!