Interview checklist

Interview checklist

• homework/ research - know what you are trying to do.• have outline in head or on paper.• discuss subject with interviewee.• tell interviewee what interview is for/time/purpose etc.• tell interviewee which audience, who aimed at.• don't write questions down - except perhaps first one tell interviewee first question (esp. if live).• keep questions simple and short - no multiple questions.• don't ask questions that can be answered yes/no.• don't make assumptions.• don't argue.• put interviewee at ease.• don't say um, ha, yes, etc. - nod, smile etc.• keep eye contact, look at interviewee.• look interested - BE interested• be careful not to make noises, tapping fingers etc. or interviewee will do the same.• don't try and cover too much - very few current affairs interviews are worth more than 4 minutes: and don't try and cover more than three or four main points• avoid jargon.• ask the questions that the listeners want answered.• remember the time frame: today/tomorrow/yesterday, etc. It can change by the time you go on the air.• have a final question to wrap up the interview• always check you have recorded an interview-before you leave the studio.