Now, the interview

THE INTERVIEW

1. When you meet the interviewees for the first time, say thank you. It shows you value their time.

2. Ideally, you’ll have written down a few questions but expect to be surprised by what you hear and change courses. I often like to start with one of two prompts:

a) “I do have some questions, but I thought we’d start at the beginning — how you got here and how come?”

b) “Well, I do have questions for you, but mostly I was hoping to pick your brain about juvenile justice and what you think are the major issues.” [Often, someone who hasn't been interviewed will say, "So what are your questions?" hence the preface at the start of both of those prompts.]

4. Then be very quiet. Allow for silence. Once, I was speaking with someone and I accidentally hit the mute button. I kept trying to fill the silence and after a long pause (on his end), he kept talking. Turned out he had more reflections and wasn’t waiting for me to speak.

5. From the beginning of the interview, listen with your entire being. Don’t space out. Think hard about what you’re being told and what’s missing. Did she just dodge that question? Be prepared to leave completely exhausted.

6. If you’re taking notes, which I recommend you do even with a tape recorder, jot down questions you have for the interviewee that would be awkward to ask in the middle of the interview. I write my questions in all caps at the top of each notebook page, which I refer back to later in the interview. You may figure out a different method.

7. Good last question: “Is there anything else I should be asking you?”