3. The interview (by Christina Scott)
3.1 Introduction

An interview can make or break a story. How to make the most out of interviews is a particularly tricky issue for science reporters, who must rely on highly specialised researchers who are more accustomed to lecturing students and writing for other academics than communicating with the general public.

Don't forget the fear factor: many scientists have no media training, worry that their reputation will be damaged by press coverage, and find interviews very scary indeed.

Don't lose sight of the ultimate goal of the interview: an interested and intrigued reader, viewer or listener.

Preparation is important, but not always possible. How to ask questions when you know nothing about the subject? How do you persuade a busy and stressed scientist to take the time to talk? How can you make a total stranger chat like an old friend? What if your notes do not accurately reflect the interview? These are all useful matters to consider.

In this chapter, you will work through these issues. Once you have done so, you should try to prepare and conduct interviews a little differently.


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