Post on 12-Jan-2017
Structuring the Interview
COMM 3420InterviewingChapter 4
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Three parts to an interview
•Opening•Body•Close
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Before the InterviewThe Interview GuideAn outline of topics and subtopics that you
will determine the sequence of questions.• Topical sequence• Journalist sequence• Time sequence• Space sequence• Cause-effect sequence• Problem/solution sequence
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Question Sequences• Tunnel: a series questions that asks
for specific information. It doesn’t change.
• Funnel: Begins with broad questions and then the questions become more restricted.
• Inverted Funnel– Begins closed and proceeds toward open
questions– Provides a warm-up time for those
reluctant to talk
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Opening the Interview
• Opening–Sets the tone–Negative opening = defensive
climate
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Opening the Interview
• Two-step process1. Establish Rapport
– Creating feelings of goodwill and trust
– Small talk & Nonverbal communication
– Be aware of titles & context
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Opening the Interview
2. Orient the other party– Explain the purpose, length, &
nature of the interview– Do not assume too much or too
little about the other party– Give the time frame
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Opening the Interview• Ways to open
– Purpose statement– Summarize the problem– Explain the discovery of a problem– Offer an incentive/reward– Request advice or assistance– Refer to the reference person of the interview– Refer to your organization– Give the time frame– COMBINE THEM!
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Nonverbals in OpeningsBe aware of:
– Territoriality• Go where you are directed• Maintain eye contact• Follow directions
– Appearance• Should not be an obstacle.
– Touch– Handshakes firm, not crushing
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The Body of the Interview
• Interview schedules– Nonscheduled:
• No questions are prepared in advance.
• Broad information• Interviewees are reluctant to
participate• More freedom• More skill
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The Body of the Interview
– Moderately scheduled: • All major questions with possible
probing questions under each• Lessens the danger of instant
question creation• Journalists, medical personnel,
recruiters, lawyers, police, and insurance investigators
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Interview Closing
1. Signals the termination of the interview but not the relationship.
2. Can express supportiveness to enhance the relationship.
3. Summarizes the information of the interview.
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Interview Closing• Suggestions for closings
– Be sincere– Don’t rush– Don’t introduce new topics or ideas
during the closing– Leave the door open for future contacts
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Interview Closing
• Closing Techniques– Give the reason for closing– Express appreciation– Arrange for the next
encounter– Summarize the interview
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Interview Closing
• Closing nonverbally– Plan the closing as you do
the opening and body of the interview
– Combine effective nonverbal and verbal techniques
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Interview Closing
• Nonverbal Closing Signals– Straighten up in your seat– Lean forward– Stand up and/or move away– Cross your legs– Place your hands on your knees
preparing to get up
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Interview Closing
– Break eye contact– Offer to shake hands– Smile– Check your watch
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