Carefully consider who would make a good interview subject
When asking a potential interview subject, give them details about your project
Arrange a time and place with each respondent and make sure it is quiet and somewhat secluded (no interruptions)
Agree to an approximate length of time for the interview
Create a short list of open-ended (cannot be answered with "yes" or "no") questions that flow well
Choose your equipment - internal or external microphone, app, audio or video
Try a run-through mock interview with a friend or colleague
Send a reminder to your respondent a day or two before your interview appointment
A Good Interview...
Conducting a good oral history interview requires preparation:
Choose a comfortable place and bring tissues, just in case!
Turn off your device notifications, have your respondents do the same
Keep a clock or watch in sight to monitor the time
Test your equipment just prior to the interview
Start by identifying yourself, the interviewee, your location, the day and year
Begin the interview itself with "lead" questions (who, what, when, where) before the meatier questions
Be respectful with body language, show your interest!
Consider not taking detailed notes during the interview, this could be distracting and it can cause awkward pauses
Ask one question at a time
More Tips...
Do not interrupt respondent unless it is necessary to get back on track
Understand that silences will happen, ride them out
Skip some questions if needed (you will know when)
Ask clarification questions when required, these can be "yes" or "no" questions
Keep your own opinions and experiences out of the interview
Avoid repetitive interjections like "uh huh" and "I see"
No spectators!
If a respondent asks you to turn off the recording at a certain point, do it. You can resume the recording at a later point, once the respondent is ready.
Sit close enough together to ensure both voices are clear on the recordings
"Good interviewers never shine - only their interviews do"!
After the Interview...
After your interview is completed, you want to be certain to:
Save your file somewhere safe - preferably 2 different places!
If available and free, use the transcription service provided by your app
Send a written thank-you to your respondent, by card or email - this is important, as they've given you the gift of their memories
If you have multiple interviews on one day, set aside time after each sitting for note-taking
Conducting a good oral history interview requires preparation:
