Practical tips on interviewing the great and the good

Abstract

Based on experience of researching for a PhD and many years working in information policy, this article provides practical tips to guide anyone wishing to interview experts as part of their research. It takes a common-sense approach to the whole process, starting with the initial decisions to be made, types of interviews, how to get your interviewees on board, prioritisation of interviewees, venues and timing. It then takes you through recording and managing the interviews, and finally covers transcription and wrapping up. The need for careful planning and flexibility are stressed. A checklist of 42 tips to help you plan your interviews is appended.