Beuty

HOW TO INTERVIEW A RELATIVE
1. Always call a few days ahead to make sure your relative is available. Decide together where
and when you will conduct theinterview.
2. Give your relative a copy of your interview questions in advance. This will allow him or her
time to think and prepare a few answers.
3. Whileyou will need notebook paper and pens or pencils, you may also want to think about
recording the interview with a tape recorder or video camera. Askpermission before you set
up a camera though! Some people are shy about being taped. Bring at least one completely
empty notebook with you. Mark the date each timeyou start a new interview session.
4. Ask questions that need more than simple “yes” or “no” answers. You are seeking facts,
feelings, stories, anddescriptions.
5. Don’t push for answers if your relative is unwilling to share. Move on to another question.
6. Use your questions as a guide, but don’t be afraidto let your relative tell a story that doesn’t
seem related to your questions. (You want to make sure you get the basic information you
need for theassignment, however.) Don’t interrupt your relative to get back to your
interview questions—wait until he or she is finished the story.
7. Try not to schedule theinterview for more than two hours and remember to take breaks
while you are talking. Offer refreshments if you are conducting the interview at your house.
8.When you are done, be sure to thank your relative for his or her time. Sharing a final copy of
the narrative with your relative would also be a nice gesture.