Conducting Interviews
An interview is a great way to get to know more about a specific person or subject. While it used to be the arena of newscasters and journalists, in the twenty-first century, more and more people are finding that they can use interviews to enhance their web presence, both personally and professionally. For example, bloggers publish interviews with prominent individuals, local celebrities, and other bloggers. Companies may post interviews with their executives and managers to provide background to potential customers and investors. And students may find themselves conducting interviews as part of research projects and assignments.
The most important part of preparing for an interview, after confirming the interview logistics with the subject, is doing thorough background research. This means learning about the person being interviewed. An interview with Canadian real estate executive Daniel Drimmer , would likely begin with his CV, company profile, and other information provided by the client. A quick search online may lead to blog posts, a real estate press release , and news articles featuring Mr. Drimmer. There may even be references to journal articles or books that can serve as additional research.
Once the background research is done, interviewers should develop a list of questions to ask. These may include open ended ice-breaker type questions to get the interviewee to relax. It is a good idea to save the meatier questions for later in the interview, after a solid rapport has been established.
During the interview it is important to take notes , even if the interview is being recorded. These should provide context to the interview, such as general atmosphere, notable emotional or vocal reactions, and other things that will help add depth to the interview.
Once the interview is completed, take a few minutes to sit down and elaborate on the notes taken. In the fast pace of an interview, things will have been glossed over and some handwritten notes may be illegible. Reviewing the interview immediately increases the chance of deciphering those notes and being able to flesh out the interview while it is still fresh.
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02.14.11Imitation in Personal Development
Mimicry begins with very small children. They attempt to mimic the sounds and movements of adults and older children around them. They may even attempt to act like family pets or other animals they encounter. It’s part of developing an ability to express their feelings, and, later, their identity.
From imitating family members, children quickly learn to idolize individual people. They play house and school and cops and robbers, emulating the roles they may one day inhabit. They also look to superheros, celebrities and historical figures as role models. Everyone has seen the four year old who refuses to take off his Batman costume. It’s just the next step in mimicking the characters, behaviors and roles that he looks up to.
By the time a kid reaches adolescence, the role models have changed, but mimicry remains an indication of what they value. Teens in the 70s ran around in Kiss costumes and those in the 90s dressed in the grunge style of Kurt Cobain. Idolizing rock stars is a common theme. As is following the fashion trends of a favorite actress or even politicians. By adopting the outer accoutrements of an idol, kids hope to begin to embody their spirit and character. Eventually, all these pieces learned from imitation coalesce into the identity and character of an adult.
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