Ten Tips for Writing Face-To-Face Interviews

Everyone enjoys reading interviews because, rather than traditional non-fiction writing, the reader gets an insider's perspective on the subject of the interview, as well as the opinions of the interviewer. If you're thinking about writing face-to-face interviews for a publication - either print or online - here are a few great tips to get you started.

1. Dress Professionally

You will earn the respect of the subject of your face-to-face interview if you dress professionally and you will have an easier time coaxing honest answers. Trust me. Although we like to think that we don't judge people based on appearance, most people subconsciously form these superficial opinions, so don't give the subject any ammunition to feel that you aren't worth his or her time.

2. Arrive Early

Whether you're interviewing the Queen of England or just a small-town celebrity, face-to-face interviews can be intimidating if you aren't used to them. Arrive early to situate yourself and to look over your questions one more time. If you are meeting at a restaurant or coffee shop, order a drink to soothe your nerves. This will allow you to avoid the harried humiliation of arriving last.

3. Introduce Yourself and Your Publication

Before you get down to the business of asking questions, introduce yourself and the publication for which you are writing the interview. Shake the subject's hand, ask how his or her day is going and make polite conversation. This is the best way to warm up to a face-to-face interview and won't make you seem that you're "all business".

4. Focus Your Questions

Hopefully, you have a list of pre-prepared questions that you want to ask the subject of your face-to-face interview. The questions should be focused toward a specific goal or topic and should be related to what the readers of the publication want to know.

5. Steer the Interview