| All three parts of each interview—opening, body, and closing—are vital to its success. Do not underestimate the importance of both words and nonverbal actions and reactions during all three stages of interviews. Be conscious of cultural differences that affect the meaning of actions such as handshaking, eye contact, voice, touch, and gestures.
The opening influences how both parties perceive themselves and one another. It sets the tone for the remainder of the interview, orients the interviewee, and influences the willingness of both parties to communicate beyond Level 1. The opening often determines whether the interview will continue or end prematurely. Select opening techniques most appropriate for each interview.
The body of the interview must be carefully structured with an appropriate sequence that guides the interviewer’s questions, areas of information, or points systematically and allows the interviewee to understand where the interview is going and why. A nonscheduled interview is simply an interview guide with topics and subtopics an interviewer wants to cover during the interview. A moderately scheduled interview contains all major questions and possible probing questions under each. A highly scheduled interview includes all questions to be asked during an interview. A highly scheduled standardized interview contains all questions to be asked with prescribed answer options under each. Question sequences allow strategic structuring of questions within scheduled interviews.
The closing not only brings the interview to an end, but it may summarize information, verify agreements, arrange future contacts, and enhance relationships. A good closing should make both parties glad they took part and pleased with the results. Be sincere and honest. Do not rush the closing. Both sides should be actively involved in the closing. |
2003 McGraw-Hill Higher Education