Summer isn’t done with us yet! If you are spending time inside until the heat finally dissipates and have family members you have always meant to interview, this might be the perfect moment to sit down and talk! You probably learned how to conduct interviews when you were much younger, but if you haven’t done one in a while, here’s a little refresher. And if you aren’t ready just now, you may want to tuck these hints away for later in the year, especially if you usually see family members around the winter holidays, another perfect time for gathering information.
If you want to record your interview, remember to start by asking permission to do so. Then keep the following items in mind:
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- Help the person relax and feel comfortable before you begin your questions.
- Keep other people from the room so your interviewee is not distracted. Turn off the TV and silence phones, too, so neither of you feel compelled to respond to texts or calls in the middle of your interview.
- If you are working with an older person, limit the interview to an agreed-upon time period and then stick to it so your person doesn’t tire out. If needed, schedule a second interview at a later date.
- Always ask open-ended questions. Begin your questions with those trusty “5 W’s and an H”: Who, What, When, Where, Why, and How. Stay away from questions that can only be answered by yes or no unless that’s all you want for an answer.
- Be careful not to put words in anyone’s mouth. Phrase your questions carefully so you do not suggest the answers you want to hear.
- Be sensitive to your interviewee. If he/she seems reluctant to talk about certain subjects, stay away from them. Maybe try again another time, if it’s important.
- Do not disagree with an answer that is given to you, even if you know it’s not correct. Arguing may shut down your interviewee.
- If a person wants to enlarge upon a subject, encourage them to do so.
- Finally, use visual aids such as old photographs, letters, and family memorabilia to stimulate memories.
How to interview successfully is just one of the topics we’ll be covering in our writing workshop on Saturday, 26 September at the StLGS office. There still are a few spaces left, and you can save some money by registering before September 14th. More information and registration details are on our website.
Have fun as you learn more about your family history!
