Interviewer

Definition

An interviewer is a person who poses questions to another individual during a conversation, typically in a formal setting such as research, journalism, or documentary production. This role is crucial for gathering information, insights, and personal narratives that contribute to the storytelling process, shaping the direction of the dialogue while creating an environment for openness and trust.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The interviewer must create a comfortable atmosphere that encourages the interviewee to share their thoughts and experiences openly.
2. Preparation is key for interviewers, involving research on the interviewee's background and formulating relevant questions that guide the conversation.
3. An effective interviewer remains neutral and avoids leading questions to ensure that the responses reflect the interviewee's genuine opinions and feelings.
4. Building rapport with the interviewee helps in establishing trust, which can lead to more honest and insightful responses.
5. The interviewer plays a critical role in managing the flow of conversation, ensuring that it remains focused while allowing space for unexpected directions.

Review Questions

• How does an interviewer prepare for a successful conversation with an interviewee?
  • An interviewer prepares by conducting thorough research on the interviewee's background, understanding their experiences and expertise. This preparation allows the interviewer to craft relevant questions that not only guide the discussion but also create opportunities for deeper exploration of the topics at hand. Additionally, considering potential follow-up questions can help maintain the flow of conversation and encourage richer dialogue.
• In what ways can an interviewer build rapport with an interviewee during an interview?
  • An interviewer can build rapport by demonstrating active listening, showing genuine interest in the interviewee's responses, and maintaining a friendly demeanor throughout the conversation. Establishing common ground or discussing light topics before delving into more serious questions can help ease any tension. The use of open-ended questions also encourages a more natural exchange, making the interviewee feel valued and understood.
• Evaluate the impact of an interviewer's questioning style on the quality of information gathered during an interview.
  • An interviewer's questioning style significantly influences the depth and quality of information obtained. If an interviewer relies heavily on closed-ended questions, it may lead to superficial answers that limit insights. Conversely, using open-ended questions allows for richer narratives and encourages interviewees to elaborate on their thoughts and feelings. An effective interviewer must balance structure with flexibility, adapting their style based on the flow of conversation and the responses given to elicit comprehensive and meaningful information.

Related terms

Active Listening: A communication technique that involves fully concentrating, understanding, responding, and remembering what the interviewee says.

Open-Ended Questions: Questions that cannot be answered with a simple 'yes' or 'no,' encouraging deeper responses and facilitating more engaging conversations.

Follow-Up Questions: Additional questions asked after the initial response to clarify or expand on a topic introduced by the interviewee.