Pre-interview briefing

Definition

A pre-interview briefing is a crucial step taken before conducting an on-camera interview, where the interviewer and interviewee discuss the context, goals, and key topics to be covered during the interview. This process not only helps to establish rapport but also sets clear expectations, ensuring that both parties are prepared for the discussion ahead. It can also help to alleviate nervousness for the interviewee and facilitate a smoother interview process.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Pre-interview briefings help clarify the purpose of the interview, allowing both parties to focus on the main objectives.
2. During a briefing, it's important to cover any sensitive topics that might come up in the interview to ensure everyone is comfortable.
3. This step can help reduce anxiety for the interviewee by providing them with an understanding of what to expect during the conversation.
4. Effective pre-interview briefings can lead to more insightful and relevant responses during the actual interview.
5. Setting ground rules during the briefing can prevent misunderstandings or miscommunication later on in the interview.

Review Questions

• How does a pre-interview briefing enhance the overall quality of an on-camera interview?
  • A pre-interview briefing enhances the quality of an on-camera interview by ensuring that both the interviewer and interviewee are on the same page regarding the goals and topics of discussion. This preparation allows for a more focused and relevant dialogue, as it establishes clear expectations. Additionally, it fosters rapport, which can lead to more candid responses from the interviewee, resulting in a richer and more engaging interview experience.
• What key elements should be included in a pre-interview briefing to ensure a successful interview process?
  • A successful pre-interview briefing should include discussions about the objectives of the interview, key topics to be covered, potential sensitive issues, and any specific preferences or boundaries set by the interviewee. Additionally, it is important to discuss logistics such as location, timing, and technical considerations. Establishing rapport during this time is essential for creating a comfortable environment that encourages open communication during the actual interview.
• Evaluate how the absence of a pre-interview briefing might affect an on-camera interview and its outcomes.
  • The absence of a pre-interview briefing can lead to a lack of clarity regarding the purpose and direction of the interview, potentially resulting in off-topic questions and responses. This could create confusion for both the interviewer and interviewee, leading to discomfort and missed opportunities for deeper insights. Without setting expectations or addressing sensitive topics beforehand, misunderstandings may arise during the conversation, ultimately affecting the quality and effectiveness of the interview's outcomes.

Related terms

interview preparation: The process of gathering information and formulating questions prior to conducting an interview to ensure a structured and informative conversation.

rapport building: Techniques used to create a positive relationship between the interviewer and interviewee, promoting open communication during the interview.

interview techniques: Strategies employed by interviewers to effectively elicit information from their subjects during an interview.