How to Come up with Good Interview Questions in Journalism
In journalism, the ability to ask insightful and thought-provoking questions is crucial for gathering accurate information and crafting compelling narratives. Crafting good interview questions is an art that requires a combination of research, empathy, and creativity. This article will provide you with valuable tips on how to come up with effective interview questions that can make your journalism stand out.
1. Research Your Subject Thoroughly
Before you even think about asking questions, it is essential to research your subject thoroughly. Understand the background, context, and key issues related to your topic. This will help you ask more informed and relevant questions. Gather information from various sources, including books, articles, and interviews with experts in the field. The more you know about your subject, the better equipped you will be to ask meaningful questions.
2. Define Your Objective
Identify the purpose of your interview. Are you looking to gather facts, explore a personal story, or delve into a controversial issue? Defining your objective will guide you in crafting questions that align with your goals. For example, if you want to explore a personal story, you may focus on open-ended questions that encourage the interviewee to share their experiences and emotions.
3. Start with Broad Questions
Begin your interview with broad, open-ended questions that allow the interviewee to express their thoughts and opinions. This will help you understand their perspective and identify areas of interest. For instance, you can start with questions like, “Can you tell me about your background and how it has influenced your work?” or “What inspired you to pursue this particular field?”
4. Use Follow-Up Questions
Follow up with specific, targeted questions to delve deeper into the topic. Follow-up questions can clarify points, explore different angles, or prompt the interviewee to provide more detailed responses. For example, if the interviewee mentions a significant event in their career, you can ask, “How did that event impact your future decisions?” or “What lessons did you learn from that experience?”
5. Be Empathetic and Curious
Approach your interview with empathy and curiosity. Show genuine interest in the interviewee’s experiences and opinions. This will help build rapport and encourage more open and honest responses. Avoid interrupting or rushing the interviewee, and give them ample time to answer your questions.
6. Avoid Leading Questions
Be cautious of leading questions that may sway the interviewee’s responses. Instead, focus on neutral questions that allow the interviewee to express their own thoughts and opinions. For instance, instead of asking, “Don’t you think your company is responsible for the environmental damage?” try asking, “What are your thoughts on the environmental impact of your company’s operations?”
7. Practice Active Listening
Active listening is a crucial skill for journalists. Pay close attention to the interviewee’s responses and ask clarifying questions if necessary. This will demonstrate your genuine interest in their story and help you gather more accurate and comprehensive information.
8. Be Prepared to Adapt
As the interview progresses, be prepared to adapt your questions based on the information you gather. Sometimes, a response may lead to a new angle or direction that you hadn’t considered initially. Stay flexible and open to exploring these new avenues.
By following these tips, you can come up with good interview questions that will enhance the quality of your journalism. Remember, effective interviewing is a blend of preparation, curiosity, and empathy. With practice and persistence, you’ll be able to craft questions that elicit powerful and memorable stories.
