| A | B |
|---|
| Do your homework | Research and know about the subject. Be prepared before you go so you don't waste time. |
| Feel at ease | Be casual in the interview. If you can make your interviewee do this, you are much more likely to get information you need. |
| Establish a connection | Use an icebreaker to start the conversation. If all else fails, talk about the weather. |
| Ask subject to pause | If the person is talking too quickly, do this so you don't misquote or miss important information. |
| Close-ended questions | Avoid asking these questions that will result in a simple yes or no. |
| Open-ended questions | If a reporter asks these, the chance of getting more details and good quotes is much better. |
| Introduce yourself | Always do this first before the interview begins. |
| Ask for permission | When you want to tape record the interview. |
| Tough questions | Always work up to these later in the interview, when your subject feels more comfortable. |
| Never | When you should break a silence after a tough question. |
| List of questions | These should be done in advance to keep the reporter organized and on track. |
| Follow-up later | At the end of the interview, always ask for the permission to do this in case you need further information. |
| Type or write out notes | As soon as possible, you should do this while the interview is still fresh on your mind. |
