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Part Three - After the Interview

© John L. Hoh, Jr.

Review Your Notes

Transcribe your tape. If you're lucky enough to have someone else transcribe for you, great. Otherwise, you'll have to do it yourself. I've found the easiest way is to put on a pair of headphones to listen to your tape. This blocks out other noises and helps you concentrate on what is being said.

The best way to transcribe is word for word. This avoids confusion later about context.

Review your transcription as soon as possible. Make sure you understand every answer. If there are any sections you don't understand, either schedule a follow-up interview or call for clarification.

Maintain Your Equipment

Go over each piece of equipment and make sure everything continues to stay in good working order.

If necessary, purchase additional tapes and batteries now, before you need them for the next interview.

Re-pack your briefcase with notepads, pens, pencils, tapes, batteries, and the ever present tape recorder so that you are ready at any moment for your next interview.

Say Thank You

Remember to thank the interviewee. Especially, if they were an intricate part of your project. After the interview, phone or send a thank you note.

I hope you learned some new tips for interviewing. This isn't meant to be an all inclusive list, only what I feel are the most important aspects of preparing and conducting an interview.

Personal Experience is the Best Teacher

I've learned these techniques from personal experience. I invite you to read my next article on an interview near-disaster.

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