How to Interview People Who Are Intimidating

Whether you are a seasoned journalist, or just starting out in the business, there will always be someone who makes your palms sweat, heart race and possibly even makes you forget your name. If you have an interview subject who is intimidating to you in some way, take a deep breath, put things in perspective and focus on what you need to accomplish during the interview, which will require a clear outline, including a well-defined objective and questions.

Instructions

1. Don't "fall in love" with your source. This is a journalism school professor's number one point when interviewing that charismatic, awe-inspiring, powerful or off-putting subject. Don't be so bowled over that you forget the task at hand or, worse yet, don't properly listen.

2. Don't shirk the tough questions. Just because you may have adored this person since you were a child doesn't give you license to steer clear of the real questions the public needs you to ask.

3. Flatter genuinely. Don't over-do it. They have heard it all before. A little personal touch can be an endearing conversation starter, but too much and you come off unprofessional, more like a giggly schoolgirl than a smart journalist or, worse yet, you could come off like a stalker.

4. Be prepared. Have a clear plan. Of course, you should always do your homework. But when it comes to interviewing someone who virtually makes you forget your name, it's all the more important to have your objective, questions, background and notes solidified. Plus, if you show any unpreparedness or show up looking like a rookie, he wi'll jump all over it.

5. Be confident. Give yourself a pep talk beforehand. Do whatever it takes, because if you don't have confidence, you'll wilt.

6. Remind yourself: This individual is still human. Even though she may have done some almost magical deeds, she still has to eat and sleep just like you do.

7. Listen well. This is perhaps the most important point of all. Don't get so starry-eyed and caught up in the moment that you're not properly listening. Don't let your mind wander. Focus. If you don't, your notes will suffer, your follow-up questions will suffer and ultimately the story will suffer.