Interview Process Checklist

INTERVIEW PROCESS CHECKLIST

Introduction
1. Establish rapport
Introduce yourselves courteously
Explain the role of interviewer and scribe

2. State the purpose of the interview and/or project objectives clearly

3. Be prepared to explain why that particular individual or group was selected for an interview session

4. Address confidentiality issues
Findings will only be reported in aggregate
Interview data will only be shared with team members
No names will be used in reporting data or in final reports

Questioning
1. Probe
Ask for examples
Ask interviewee to make comparisons or contrasts

2. Listen
Paraphrase/restate comments to confirm that you are listening
Periodically summarize what you’ve heard

3. Use non-verbal techniques appropriately
Take notes continuously
Be aware of body language (use good eye contact, take notes continuously, etc.)

Ending
1. Summarize and verify the main points covered in the interview

2. Elicit concerns

3. Obtain materials mentioned

4. Obtain list of new contacts (if applicable)

5. Leave door open for future contact

6. Thank interviewee(s) for time Documentation
1. Take notes using the language of the interviewee(s) to maintain accuracy and avoid bias

2. When retyping interview notes, try to organize by topic and question

3. Note taking can be very challenging in an interview situation. Here are some guidelines:

Attempt to capture questions and answers word for word, at least the important parts. Write down responses in the language of the client, not your language. It's impossible to capture every word, but do your best.
Attempt to note which client interviewee said what. Perhaps different perspectives will emerge from the two people.
Note the names of your team members, names of the client interviewees, and date of the meeting at the top of the page.
Consider a division of labor among your team members, some focusing on asking questions and others focusing on taking notes.
Upload your interview notes to the appropriate repository so other team members have access.
Proof read and spell check your interview notes for clarity and accuracy.