Published in the May 11-25, 2016 issue of Morgan Hill Life
• Prepare questions in advance.
• Set aside a quiet time and place free from interruptions.
• Test your equipment before starting.
• Ask open-ended questions such as: Tell me about… Describe… What was it like when… In what ways…. Why…. and How…
• Start with easy, friendly questions and work your way up to more difficult or sensitive questions.
• Listen carefully to what the person says; don’t interrupt or correct.
• Maintain eye contact and show interest by leaning forward and nodding.
• Photos, mementos, or other visual aids are great memory-joggers, have some ready if necessary.
• Don’t force any subject into talking about uncomfortable topics. If the person doesn’t want to talk about something, just go to the next question.
• Asking follow-up questions will help you get more information.
• An interview shouldn’t last more than about an hour. People do best when they’re not tired. You can always do additional interviews.
