In the world of journalism, interviewing is an art, and like any art form, it requires both skill and finesse. The heart of good journalism often lies in the quality of the interviews conducted. A skilled interviewer can reveal the truth, capture stories, and bring essential issues to light. In this guide, we will explore the critical elements that make a journalist proficient in the art of interviewing. From the principles guiding journalism to the practical techniques you can apply, we’ll delve into the world of journalistic interviews to help you become a more effective and ethical journalist.

What Makes a Good Journalist?

One of the best ways to define bad journalism is to compare it to good journalism. Basically, good journalism is defined by the practices and principles that distinguish it from bad journalism. It is about integrity, accuracy, and the ability to deliver a compelling story. Distinguished journalists like Christiane Amanpour and John Berman from CNN; Channels Television’s Terry Ikumi and Ijeoma Onyeator are shining examples of who a good journalist should be. One thing they all have in common is their exceptional ability to deliver on their assignments and the qualities they exhibit while at it. Qualities such as ethical integrity, rigorous fact-checking, objectivity, in-depth research, effective storytelling, interviewing expertise, and accountability.

According to the Pew Research Center, The news media — journalists and executives alike — largely agree on the core principles of journalism, to include getting the facts right, presenting both sides of the story, and avoiding the spread of rumors.

Bringing Principles into Practice

The interview is one of the—if not the—most important tools we as journalists have to obtain information, to expand on information we may have from other sources, and to clarify facts and see things from different perspectives. We use the interview to expand upon the basic “who, what, where, how, when and why” of newsgathering. Whether you’re starting your journalism journey or seeking to enhance your interviewing abilities, this guide is your roadmap to mastering the art of the interview.

Prepare! Prepare!! Prepare!!!

Being well-informed starts with thorough research of both the topic and the source. Whether you’re interviewing specialists or everyday people, a solid understanding of the subject matter is key. Study past articles, explore online resources, and delve into existing media to gain insights into your topic. Prepare your questions in advance and remember the KISS principle: Keep them short and simple. Keep in mind that “who, why, how” questions often elicit the best responses.

Maintain a Relaxed yet Professional Demeanor

A comfortable atmosphere is crucial during an interview. It starts with your demeanor. Maintain a balance between relaxation and professionalism. This approach helps you create a comfortable environment for both you and your source while upholding professional respect and integrity.

Use effective Questioning Methods

Begin with a little chit-chat. Starting with simple, non-invasive questions can break the ice and encourage interviewees to open up. Group your questions by theme to ensure a logical flow in the conversation. Ask open-ended and probing questions to elicit insightful responses and encourage a meaningful discussion.

Be a Good Listener

Active listening is a valuable skill. It shows your genuine interest in the subject matter and helps you adapt your interview technique with relevant questions. Being a good listener can uncover knowledge that may otherwise remain hidden.

Pay Attention to Body Language and Non-Verbal Cues

Body language speaks volumes. Observing your source’s facial expressions, gestures, and other non-verbal signals provides insights into their thoughts and feelings. Moreover, be mindful of your own body language, as it can influence your source’s comfort and willingness to share.

Adhere to Ethical Guidelines at All Times

Ethical considerations are the foundation of good journalism. This includes respecting privacy, obtaining informed consent for interviews when necessary, and ensuring accuracy and fairness in reporting. Always ask for permission to record interviews to maintain transparency and trust.

Handling Difficult Situations

Be prepared for challenging moments during interviews. Anticipate potential issues and use effective communication and problem-solving skills to address them. Handling difficult situations professionally is a crucial aspect of successful interviewing.

Do’s and Don’ts

• Be polite and respectful.

• Avoid talking too much about yourself or your opinions.

• Stay vigilant for potential leads.

• Respect privacy boundaries.

• Ask for clarification when needed.

• Be culturally sensitive and practice cultural relativism.

• Always ask if there’s more your source would like to discuss.

• Confirm contact information and permission for follow-up at the end of the interview.

Navigating Challenging Interviews: A Case Study

In journalistic interviewing , flexibility is as important as preparation. Interviews don’t always go as planned, especially when dealing with politicians and individuals in positions of power. They may attempt to dominate the conversation, using the platform to push their views and policies rather than directly addressing the questions posed to them. A practical example of this occurred during an interview on Oct. 30, between Nigerian Journalist, Oseni Rufai of Arise Television and Jesutega Onakpasa, a Chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Analyzing the Interview

In my opinion, Rufai Oseni started off the interview a little aggressively. While it’s important to adapt and maintain control, we often want to start off slowly and build up to those questions that might catch our subject off-guard or challenge them. However, Oseni was definitely doing his job effectively if he had numbers and statistics to back up his claims about the economic problems facing the country. He did an amazing job keeping his composure and getting things back on track after the brief shouting match while still holding his subject accountable.

Kudos to Onakpasa, the politician who also did a good job by not throwing up his hands in frustration and leaving the interview as he initially threatened.

This case study demonstrates the importance of maintaining professionalism and adaptability, even in challenging moments.

Conclusion

Becoming a skilled interviewer is a journey. It requires continuous learning and practice. By integrating these principles and techniques into your interviewing process, you’ll not only be a more effective journalist but also a source of reliable information and a beacon of ethical journalism.