How to Clarify a Statement Without Offending Interviewee

During an interview the interviewee makes a statement which does not make sense to you. You need to clarify the statement but do not want to offend the interviewee.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• An even tone of voice
• A straight face

How to Clarify a Statement Without Offending Inteviewee

1. In interviewing sometimes a person will say something which needs clarifying. Sometimes it may be strange or it may be funny. However you cannot laugh.

2. The hardest part of this is repeating what the person just said to see if you heard it correctly. Keep a straight face if it stuck you as funny. Sometimes the person is very serious even though the way they chose to explain themselves is very funny.

3. Clarifying is simply repeating what you thought you heard. You may have heard incorrectly, or the person may realize he said it differently than he meant to say it. He will usually clarify.

4. Go on with the interview as if nothing peculiar has happened.

Tips & Warnings

• Interviewees do say strange things from time to time so you need to be prepared.
• If you cannot control you laughter, excuse yourself to make copies or to run to the restroom. Gain control before you reply to the person.
• People who say odd things may be just using the wrong words unintentionally.
• However, often people who say odd things are potentially dangerous. Keep aware of the demeanor of the person. If he is under the influence, you should not challenge him. Instead, ask if he is feeling well and offer to postpone the interview.