**The art of writing and/or journalism relies on observation. But, like all journalism, even more than observation, good writing relies on interviewing. Interviewing is an essential part of news, feature, and sports writing. A good interview requires preparation, research, background knowledge, and good note-taking.
**There are THREE main types of interviews. Although many interviews are a mixture of all types.
** Three basic forms: 1. The Informative Interview: This type of interview is to get details that the interview subject can provide because of his/her position. In sports writing, for example, the reporter may ask, "Who is injured?" or "Who is still recovering?" A coach or a trainer can tell you this information because he or she is the one who is making the decisions about who is ready to play. 2. The Opinion Interview: Rather than seeking out the facts, this type of interview seeks out peoples' thoughts and feelings. Opinion interviews are significant for two reasons: a. if the person holding the opinion is newsworthy b. if the opinion itself is newsworthy, because it is well-expressed, popular, or simply because its original. 3.The Personality Interview: This type of interview attempts to give an accurate picture of the person in the news. Relying upon impressions, informal talk, and the subject's emotions, the personality interview is all about getting to know someone as well as possible.
Interview Preparation:
A. Preparation: 1. Choose an interview subject= be sure you talk to the best person for the story 2. Make an appointment= just showing up is not professional 3. Research your subject= get to know who the person is, background information 4. Research your topic= be acquainted with the basics so you can ask meaningful questions 5. Write out your questions in advance= come prepared!!!
During the Interview:
1. Be professional: dress well and be on time! 2. Take notes, no matter what: don't be shy about asking people to repeat themselves 3. Be observant: take note of the scene, and of the subject's appearance and disposition 4. Ask the questions you have prepared: but don't be afraid to improvise! 5. Thank the subject: Never forget to do this:)
Types of Attribution:
1. On the record: when the identity of the source is part of the story and anything the the source says can be directly or indirectly quoted 2. Off the record: when both the reporter and the source agree that the source's name will not be used AND the information will NOT go in the story.
