Interviews

Apart from the general instructions, the following issues should be considered for interviews:

• Recording of data: Define how the data should be documented. Examples are as follows: Recording of the responses in a prepared response scale (in standardised interviews), written protocol of the responses or recording on an audio or video recorder (in non-standardised interviews, see page on Interviews).
• Skills of the interviewer: The interviewer should be familiar with the conducting of interviews and should know the aim of the interview. If necessary, organise appropriate training for the potential interviewers (cf. Von Saldern, 1998; Bortz & Döring, 2003).
  • Being informed: The interviewer must be able to answer questions about the project; so he/she should be familiar with the project.
  • Being neutral: The interviewer should be neutral towards the interviewees and towards the questions!
  • Creating a pleasant atmosphere: The interviewer should create a relaxed atmosphere during each interview. For example, he/she should be able to react to complaints or organisational problems in a responsible and appropriate way.
  • Needless to say, the interviewer should have sufficient language skills.
    
  • Being self-critical: in order to avoid his conduct, behaviour, attitude, etc. affecting the responses, the interviewer should be aware of his/her behaviour at all times.
    

• Medium: How do you want to communicate with the interview partner? Directly (face-to-face), by phone, by online messaging, etc.? This depends not only on the technical possibilities but also on the issues to be discussed.

• Do you want to conduct one-to-one or group interviews? Group settings are appropriate if you want to gain insights from a relatively open group discussion. A one-to-one interview can be more easily standardised.
  

General Procedure

A) Preparation

1. Prepare an interview guideline.
   
2. Send a letter to interviewees to inform them and prepare them regarding the topics to be discussed. If necessary, the interview guideline can be also sent.
   
3. Arrange the interview place, time and duration with each interviewee (by phone).
   
4. Collect information about the project and the interviewees (role in the project).

B) Execution

1. Greet and introduce yourself, refer to the cover letter.
2. Explain once more why the survey is being conducted.
   
3. Call attention to the fact that the interview will be minuted / recorded.
4. Explain the next steps regarding the results.
   
5. Start the interview.
   
6. Conclude the interview: Allow the interviewee to ask questions and to comment, thank him/her for their information and participation.