 At times during evaluations, we interview participants to gather further data. Here are some tips for conducting an effective interview.
Listen effectively. Be a good listener; know how to redirect a conversation to get the critical information as quickly as possible. Listen without judging.
Ease on in. Start with easy to respond to questions-just follow the interview protocol.
Set the tone. Let the interviewee know how the data will be used and that everything said will be held in strictest confidence.
Express your appreciation for the time that participants have taken to talk to you. Explain how the interview will proceed and then try to follow that format as closely as possible.
Use the script. Follow the interview protocol.
Listen to your instincts. As you hear things continue to probe until you feel you have uncovered everything.
Know what you want. If you've set aside thirty minutes for the interview, do your best to stick with that schedule. But be prepared to cut the interview short and jump to the concluding questions.
Write it down. Forget about remembering everything that transpires during an interview. You'll want to take notes so that you can review at a later time.
Probe. As you uncover areas that you feel are promising, investigate further by asking probing questions.
Test for understanding. Paraphrase back to interviewees what you have heard. They will either confirm that you understand or add further information.
End with a thank you. Thank the interviewees and remind them how their data will be used.
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