Effective Newspaper Interviewing: Mastering the Who, What, When, Where, Why, and How

Do you know your 5WH formula? Are you prepared to meet deadlines and get all the information an editor is looking for? Before you can write a winning newspaper story, however, you must master the art of interviewing.

While interviewing someone can be intimidating, it is not as scary as you think. If you are a journalist looking to become a better interviewer, just follow these simple steps and you'll be more confident in the field or on the phone.

Conquer your nerves. Although you are most likely interviewing a stranger, that doesn't necessarily mean things will go bad. Many people love to talk about themselves or a subject they are an expert in. If it helps, mentally rehearse what you will say before you make a phone call or pay someone a visit. You can even write down your words beforehand, but make sure you don't sound too scripted.

Have a list of questions already prepared. When you prepare questions, you will know what direction you want the interview to take. Start with basic questions about your topic, then work your way down and become more in depth. The best way to start is to ask someone how they got interested in something, then describe the effort they put forth to get to where they are, and conclude with asking for advice or how readers can obtain more information. When you speak to your subject, make sure to have your questions in front of you as well as separate paper for writing down answers.

Have several writing tools on hand. This is pretty self-explanatory: You should have extra pencils in case your points break, or extra pens should you run out of ink.

Give yourself enough time to establish contact. Start making contacts as soon as you get your assignment. This way, if a person is not available when you first call, you can arrange a time that is convenient for both of you. Make sure you mention your deadline to the person you are talking to. That way, they will understand when your work has to be in and in most cases; they are willing to work around the deadline.

Be a good listener. Give your subject enough time to tell their story. If you want to elaborate on a question you have already asked, wait for a break when they are speaking, then ask for more information.

Come to a polite close. After you have asked all your questions and have enough information, thank the subject for their time. Mention when your article will be published and tell them where to pick up a copy. People enjoy reading about themselves and often save the article for a keepsake.

Your first set of interviews may be an awkward experience, but after completing several, you will feel like a professional. By following these easy steps, you will gain more confidence and your contacts will appreciate your efforts to prepare. The general public may gain respect for you based on your writing, so get to work and soon, you will be acing your interviews.