Be a Better Interviewer

Many factors make someone a skilled interviewer, but there is a model that you can use to interview successfully whether you are hiring a nanny, buying a car or reporting a story. By having a model in mind, your information-seeking conversations will become more productive and make you a better communicator.

Using an interviewing model will help you clarify "why" you are seeking this information. Interviewing is a purposeful undertaking, so it should be conducted with intent, otherwise, you could be wasting everyone's time. An interviewer with a vague purpose is more likely to ramble and convey that vagueness.

Building initial rapport is important. This sets the tone for the conversation. Is it friendly, professional, casual or hostile? Building rapport is as simple as, "Would you like some coffee?" "How was the drive?" "Was parking a problem?"

In transitioning to the interview, all interviews should have an opening statement. This is the chance for the interviewer to set the frame, describe the information sought and describe its purpose. This is an important step because it will help avoid misunderstanding and keep the interview on point. The opening statement should always contain three elements: who you are, the information you seek and why the person is qualified to answer the question.

If the interviewer fails to make a clear opening statement, then you, as an interviewee, should step in and clarify those three points. This is also a time to gain control of the conversation if the interviewer is unclear or unprepared, thereby unable to make the opening statement.

The next step is to ask an open-ended question supporting the opening statement just described. The open-ended statement elicits more information and helps the interviewee understand that you seek information beyond simple "yes" and "no" answers. An example of a closed-ended question is "Do you like to shop online?" versus an open-ended question that asks, "Could you describe how you shop online?"

The following questions should probe even further: "Tell me more" or "Can you elaborate?"

A crucial step is to reflect back what you have heard. Again, this helps avoid confusion and miscommunication. Restate what you have heard, but in your own words. Ask for confirmation that this is an accurate recount.

At this point, you can then ask another open-ended question and start a new topic or conclude in a manner that respects both your's and the interviewee's time.