Interviewer

Definition

An interviewer is a person who conducts an interview, asking questions and engaging with the subject to elicit information, insights, or opinions. This role is crucial in various contexts, especially in on-camera settings, where the interviewer must not only gather content but also create a comfortable atmosphere that encourages openness and authenticity from the interviewee.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. An effective interviewer builds rapport with the interviewee, making them feel at ease to encourage more honest and detailed responses.
2. The choice of questions is vital; good interviewers often mix open-ended questions with specific ones to guide the conversation effectively.
3. Interviews can be structured, semi-structured, or unstructured, allowing flexibility in how information is gathered based on the goals of the interaction.
4. On-camera interviewers must also pay attention to their own body language and vocal tone, as these elements impact viewer perception and engagement.
5. Preparation is key; successful interviewers research their subjects and formulate questions that resonate with the audience while remaining relevant to the subject's expertise.

Review Questions

• How does an interviewer create a comfortable environment for the interviewee during an on-camera interview?
  • An interviewer creates a comfortable environment by establishing rapport with the interviewee through friendly demeanor and active listening. They may start with light conversation or easy questions to ease tension. This approach helps build trust, allowing the interviewee to feel safe sharing more personal or in-depth responses as the conversation progresses.
• In what ways do question types influence the depth of information obtained during an interview?
  • The types of questions used by an interviewer significantly affect the depth of information shared. Open-ended questions encourage elaborate answers and insights, prompting interviewees to share more than just basic facts. In contrast, closed questions can limit responses to simple affirmations. A mix of both types allows for a more dynamic exchange while ensuring all necessary details are covered.
• Evaluate the impact of body language on the effectiveness of an interviewer during an on-camera interview.
  • Body language plays a crucial role in how an interviewer is perceived and can greatly affect their effectiveness. Positive body language, such as maintaining eye contact and nodding in agreement, helps convey interest and encouragement to the interviewee. Conversely, negative body language like crossed arms or distracted behavior can create barriers, making the interviewee feel uncomfortable or less willing to share openly. Thus, an effective interviewer must be mindful of their non-verbal cues to foster a productive dialogue.

Related terms

Interviewee: The individual being interviewed, who responds to the questions posed by the interviewer and provides the content needed for the story.

Open-ended questions: Questions that require more than a yes or no answer, encouraging deeper discussion and elaboration from the interviewee.

Body language: Non-verbal communication through gestures, facial expressions, and posture, which plays a significant role in how interviews are perceived and can influence the dynamics between the interviewer and interviewee.