Conduct the interview

DOE-HDBK-1103-96

first impression of the interview and interviewer is often a lasting

impression. Therefore, the first moments are critical to the overall

success of the interview. Explain who you are, why the interview is

being conducted, and the intent of the interview. Ensure that the

environmental conditions are appropriate to the interview. To help the

interviewee relax, start the interview by making "small-talk" and getting

to know the interviewee. This will enhance the interviewee's willingness

to provide needed information. Asking difficult and controversial

questions at the beginning of the interview can make the interviewee

apprehensive and reluctant to provide needed information.

Step 3: Conduct the interview. Allow and encourage interviewees to do most of

the talking during the main part of the interview. During this time the

interviewer should guide the interview to keep it on track. Each question

asked should seek information that is focused on the purpose of the

interview. These questions will be your prepared questions and any

follow-up questions you need for clarification. Active listening is very

important during interviews. The interviewer should clearly understand

what is being said and meant by the interviewee. The interviewer

should not try to remember what is said during the interview. The

interviewee's responses to questions should be documented.

Step 4: Conclude the interview. The manner in which the interview is concluded

will change for each interview since it depends on what happens during

the interview. However, there are several items to be considered when

concluding an interview. They are 1) give the interviewee time to ask

questions, 2) summarize what has been said during the interview, 3)

explain how the information will be used in the needs analysis process,

4) inform the interviewee that additional data may be needed at a later

date and ask if it's okay for you to return for a few follow-up questions,

and 5) thank the interviewee for participating in the interview.