The Art of Interviewing: A Guide for Aspiring Journalists

Journalism is a curious endeavor that often involves delving into subjects one might initially find foreign or daunting. Interviews, a crucial component of this process, demand more than just the ability to ask questions; they require a deep understanding and respect for the expertise of the interviewee. This article aims to guide aspiring journalists on how to conduct interviews effectively, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, intellectual curiosity, and the role of the subject matter expert.

Embrace Your Ignorance and Make Peace with It

Every journalist must accept the reality that we all have gaps in our knowledge, and that's okay. The interviewee is the subject matter expert, and their expertise is the reason why they are imparting information, while your role is to ask insightful questions. Never shy away from admitting what you don’t know. This sincerity can open the door to some of the best responses. For instance, asking a straightforward query such as:

“Can you explain string theory to someone who doesn’t know anything about quantum mechanics?”

not only shows respect for the interviewee’s knowledge but also guides them to articulate complex ideas in a digestible manner. Most readers approach your article with a similar mindset of seeking knowledge, not claiming familiarity with the subject.

Understanding Is Key to Authority

Before you can explain an issue to your readers, you must fully understand it yourself. This is not about memorizing facts but about comprehending the subject in depth. Engagement with experts is vital. They can help break down intricate concepts into simpler terms, making your writing clearer and more authoritative. Even seasoned journalists rely on subject matter experts, as the goal of an interview is to extract valuable information that can be shared with the audience.

Cultivate Intellectual Curiosity

Passionate journalists find inspiration and motivation in their curiosity. Reading widely and consistently will not only enrich your knowledge but also sharpen your interviewing skills. Curiosity fuels the formation of engaging questions and helps you extract detailed and nuanced responses from interviewees. This curiosity also aids in identifying interesting angles and details that make your articles stand out.

The Case Against Media_falseBrokers

Contrast can be revealing: some television reporters may appear content with surface-level details and lack the intellectual drive to seek out meaningful insight. This lack of curiosity can harm the quality of reporting and stunt the growth of aspiring journalists. One instance that stands out is a particularly unengaging TV reporter who, despite the objectives of a combined newsroom, struggled to gather detailed descriptions from a scene of tragedy.

Her responses were disappointing, such as: “It’s two stories. It’s pretty.” A house's color, architectural style, and neighborhood details were all eluded to. Her inability to describe basic aspects allowed me to conclude that not only was it a lack of curiosity, but also a lack of journalistic skill. Such an approach does a disservice to both the story and the audience. Building a foundation of curiosity is essential for improving interviewing techniques and enhancing your overall storytelling abilities.

Conclusion: Embrace the Journey and Serve Your Audience

Journalism is a rewarding yet challenging profession. It requires a blend of knowledge, skill, and a genuine desire to contribute meaningfully. Remember, every interview is an opportunity to learn and grow. By embracing your ignorance, cultivating your curiosity, and respecting the expertise of your interviewees, you can become a more effective and respected journalist.

Say goodbye to the fear of admitting what you don’t know, and instead, turn it into a strength. By approaching interviews with an open mind and a keen curiosity, you can deliver exceptional content that resonates with your audience and sets the standard for others to follow.