Talking with people first hand is a great way to research and gather information, but interviewing does require some skills to ensure that you get the most valuable information from them.
Make Arrangements
Contact the person prior explaining who you are and why you want to interview them. A successful interview relies on the interviewee feeling confident and relaxed with the interviewer. Therefore it's important, even if they are family or friends, to take the time to explain the purpose of your interview and what you plan to do with the material. Remember sometimes this may be sensitive to the interviewee.
Follow-Up Interview
If possible, arrange for a second follow-up interview. People can sometimes be nervous on the first occasion, and a second interview gives you the opportunity to clarify any details and possibly pursue some questions further. This may not become obvious until later when you have reviewed your interview notes.
Create a Relaxed Atmosphere
Take your time and put the person at ease. Some social small talk followed by some simple questions can help get the interview started. Don't rush in with questions the interviewee might find uncomfortable or controversial. Build up to these and it may even be better to leave these until a follow-on interview. It is possible that your interview will bring up difficult memories, so tread sensitively and remember it's more important to allow the person time than to be focused on finishing your interview.
Time to Talk
A good interviewer allows the interviewee to talk. Sometimes they will ramble on, perhaps even stray away from the topic. You never know what this might uncover, so allow yourself plenty of time and let the interview unfold of its own accord. Of course, sometimes it may be necessary to guide the interview back on track, but try not to direct the outcome by having to many questions.
Consider your questions carefully. Avoid those that encourage short yes or no answers, and try to have just a few questions which get the person talking.
Technical Aspects
Agree up front with the interviewee how you will capture your notes. Are they happy for you to use a recorder? If so, this is a great way for you to remain focused on the interviewee and not on your notes, while also having an exact copy of what was said. Some interviewees may be nervous with a recorder placed in front of them so consider using a discreet version which is less obvious. But always inform the interviewee that you are recording the interview.
See also Research Note Taking for Memoir Writers
Follow-up
Finally, discuss with the interviewee how they would like to see, and possibly review, anything they have said that you want to use. Also check how they would like to be acknowledged.
It's important to gain your interviewee's trust and for them to feel comfortable with your interview process. Take the time to explain the purpose of your research and what you intend to do with it. Agree with them what opportunities they will have to review anything you plan to publish. Remember that some of your questions might raise difficult or emotional memories; don't rush your interviewee and respect their wishes.
See also Researching Historical Details
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