how to interview someone about their life

3 min read 23-01-2025

how to interview someone about their life

Conducting a life interview, whether for personal enrichment, a family history project, or a journalistic piece, is a rewarding experience. It allows you to preserve memories and connect with others on a deeper level. This article will guide you through the process, ensuring you gather rich, meaningful stories.

Planning Your Life Interview: Preparation is Key

Before you even meet your interviewee, thorough preparation is crucial. This ensures a smooth, productive session.

1. Define Your Objectives & Scope

What do you hope to achieve with this interview? Are you focusing on a specific period of their life? A particular theme (e.g., career, family, overcoming adversity)? Clearly defining your goals will shape your questions.

2. Research Your Subject (If Applicable)

Depending on the context, researching your subject beforehand can provide valuable context. This could involve looking at family photos, reading relevant documents, or even having preliminary conversations. Knowing their background helps you ask more informed and relevant questions.

3. Develop Your Questions

Create a mix of open-ended and specific questions. Open-ended questions (e.g., "Tell me about your childhood," "What was your biggest challenge?") encourage detailed responses. Specific questions (e.g., "Where did you grow up?", "What year did you graduate?") provide context and factual information.

Avoid leading questions: Phrase questions neutrally to avoid influencing their answers.
Prioritize their story: Let them guide the conversation, rather than rigidly sticking to your prepared questions.

4. Choose the Right Setting & Time

Select a comfortable, quiet environment where your subject feels relaxed and at ease. Schedule ample time—a shorter interview might feel rushed, while a longer one could lead to fatigue.

5. Consider Recording the Interview

Obtain informed consent before recording. Recording allows you to focus on the conversation rather than taking extensive notes. However, always have a backup method of note-taking in case of technical difficulties.

Conducting the Life Interview: Techniques for Engaging Conversation

1. Build Rapport

Start with friendly small talk to break the ice. Make your interviewee feel comfortable and respected. This will help them open up and share more freely.

2. Active Listening is Crucial

Pay close attention to their responses, both verbal and non-verbal. Show genuine interest through your body language (eye contact, nodding). Ask follow-up questions to delve deeper into their experiences.

3. Encourage Storytelling

Use prompts like "Tell me more about that," "What happened next?", or "How did that make you feel?" These encourage narrative flow and elicit richer detail.

4. Handle Sensitive Topics with Care

If the conversation touches on sensitive subjects, approach them with empathy and respect. Be prepared to shift gears if necessary, respecting their boundaries and comfort level.

5. Don't Interrupt (Unless Necessary)

Let them tell their story without interruption. However, gently guide the conversation back on track if it veers too far off topic.

6. Ask Clarifying Questions

If something is unclear, politely ask for clarification. Don't hesitate to ask for elaboration on specific details or events.

After the Interview: Processing and Preserving the Story

1. Review and Transcribe (If Recorded)

Carefully review your recording (or notes) as soon as possible. Transcribing allows you to analyze the interview and identify key themes.

2. Organize and Edit

Organize the transcribed material chronologically or thematically, depending on your goals. You may need to edit for clarity and flow while preserving the essence of their story.

3. Fact-Checking (If Necessary)

If you're working on a formal project, verify factual details and dates.

4. Respect Privacy

Always respect your interviewee's privacy. Obtain their consent before sharing their story publicly. If necessary, anonymize identifying details to protect their confidentiality.

Example Interview Questions

These are merely starting points; adapt them to your specific needs.

Childhood & Family:

Tell me about your childhood home.
What are your earliest memories?
What were your relationships like with your family members?
What were some of the traditions in your family?

Education & Career:

What were your educational experiences like?
How did you choose your career path?
What were some of the challenges and triumphs in your career?
What are you most proud of accomplishing in your work?

Relationships & Personal Life:

Tell me about some of the important relationships in your life.
What are some of the life lessons you've learned?
What are some of your hobbies and interests?
What are you most grateful for?

Challenges & Triumphs:

What were some of the biggest challenges you faced in your life?
How did you overcome these challenges?
What are some of your proudest moments?
What advice would you give to your younger self?

By following these guidelines, you'll be well-equipped to conduct a meaningful life interview, preserving precious memories and creating a lasting legacy. Remember, the most important element is to listen actively, show genuine interest, and create a safe space for your interviewee to share their unique story.