Russell Still's Home Page

A friend recently asked me for some hints about interviewing. In particular, about interviewing eyewitnesses of events that happened long ago. Here's what I told him:

Russell's Rules for Interviews

(1) These guys usually remember telling the story, not the actual event itself. Thus, expect some embellishments and inaccuracies.

(2) Historic personalities frequently get upset if you imply that they are wrong about something. Remember, they consider themselves experts. If they tell you something that you know is wrong, very delicately indicate that you thought it was a bit different. If they don't go along with that, just make a note to yourself and move on.

(3) Different people will have different remembrances. Expect it - don't be surprised. You will have to get all the information you can from multiple sources, then average it out. It's part of the job.

(4) Be prepared. Know the subject area, the major figures, and the major developments. Have a general knowledge of the story beforehand. Interviewees expect that you already have some expertise on the subject. If you don't, you might as well get a job as a TV reporter.
(Apologies to Dawn.)

(5) Have them give you a rough timeline of events first, then go back and discuss these events in order and in detail. This lets you know what the major issues are before you get started with documenting details.

(6) Don't let your interviewee meander. They frequently like to jump ahead in their stories to other stories. Your chronology will get all out of whack if you let them. Politely mention that you need to keep the interview in time sequential order.

(7) If you record the interview (and you should), also summarize everything on paper as you go. Then you'll know where to find items in the recording later by looking at your notes. And if you don't own a palm-sized digital recorder, purchase one immediately.