How to Conduct a Journalistic Interview: Step-by-Step Guide

An interview is one of a journalist’s most important tools. Conducting a successful interview requires deep preparation, active listening, and the ability to ask clear, direct questions. This guide outlines how to prepare for and execute professional journalistic interviews.

Preparation Phase (Before the Interview)

1. Research the Interviewee

Never walk into an interview unprepared.

• Read past profiles, articles, and speeches by the subject.
• Search for any recent news or controversies involving them.
• Review their social media posts to understand their current projects.

2. Formulate Your Questions

• Prioritize: Write down 10-15 questions but mark the top 5 “must-ask” questions in case time is cut short.
• Keep Questions Short: Do not ask long, multi-part questions (e.g., “What did you think of the policy, how will it affect budgets, and who supported it?”). Break them down into separate, focused questions.
• Use Open-Ended Prompts: Avoid yes/no questions. Start questions with “How,” “Why,” or “What was the reason behind…”

Execution Phase (During the Interview)

1. Set the Rules Early

Before asking questions, establish the ground rules:

• Confirm that the session is “on-the-record.”
• Request permission to record the audio for accuracy purposes.

2. Build a Rapport (The Warm-Up)

Start with 1-2 simple, non-controversial questions about their background or recent work to put them at ease.

3. Practice Active Listening

The most common mistake is focusing entirely on your list of questions instead of listening to the answers.

• Focus on the subject’s words.
• If they mention something surprising or vague, ask a follow-up: “Could you elaborate on that?” or “Why did that happen?”
• Do not hesitate to ask for clarification if you do not understand a term or data point.

4. Ask the Hard Questions Last

Wait until you have built rapport before introducing controversial or difficult questions. Frame them neutrally: “Critics argue that… How do you respond to that?”

Documentation and Transcription (After the Interview)

1. Verify Key Details: Confirm the correct spelling of their name, job title, and organization before ending the session.
2. Review Notes Immediately: Write down your impressions of the setting, body language, and key points immediately after leaving the interview.
3. Transcribe Wisely: Transcribe key quotes verbatim to ensure accuracy. Store the raw audio file as a reference.