How to Interview a Subject for an Article
Interviewing an expert in a subject area, a person of interest, or someone with a great story to tell can really add some depth to your article. Often times the person you choose to interview will be flattered and happily accept the interview. Being prepared for the interview will ensure that you come across as professional and cover all the necessary questions you need answered during the interview. Taking simple steps will help you be prepared for a great interview.
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Instructions
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How to Interview a Subject for an Article
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Before you interview your subject ask them if they are willing to be interviewed and have your article idea approved by a publisher.You can get an article idea approved by writing a query letter to the editor of the magazine you want to write for. Inform the editor of the subject of your proposed article and let him know why you think his readers would be interested in your interview. Be patient as it can take some time to hear back from the editor.
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Prepare for you interview once your article idea has been approved. Do some background research on your subject. If he has a website or blog, you can learn a great deal about him by checking it out. Deciding on the title of the article before the interview will help you decide which types of questions to ask. Brainstorm and compile a list of possible questions and make sure to leave some open ended so you can give your interviewee a chance to elaborate. Doing this may end up providing you with additional information you may not have gotten otherwise.
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Be flexible when scheduling the interview. Your subject is doing you a favor by meeting, so work with his schedule. Make sure to choose a location that is relatively quiet so you two can talk without being distracted. Bring your questions, a pen, paper and a tape recorder if you choose. Take lots of notes and ask questions when you need clarification. Do not interrupt your subject even if they go off on a tangent and be mindful of the time so that your interview does not take longer than promised. Thank your interviewee for taking the time to talk with you.
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Remain in touch with your interview subject even after you submit your article as you may need to ask them some additional questions if your magazine editor requests more information.
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Tips & Warnings
Never make a promise to include particular quotes or sections of the interview in your article because the magazine editor will have the final say on all material.
Do not offer a preview of your article to your subject. Doing so could become stressful if both your subject and your editor disagree on the direction of the article and you are caught trying to please both parties.
