Points to consider when conducting oral history interviews
written by Mario Perez in May 2000, based on the USHMM "Oral History Interview
Guidelines" (1998)
see also Mario's 4-page summary of that guidebook
[this version can be printed as a handout for first-time researchers]
Before the interview:
* Make contact with the individual in advance, leaving time
to exchange back and forth phone calls
* Be flexible with the meeting time and place of the interview
* Respect the individual's lifestyle and attempt to work around
it
* Get a physical description of the individual
* Agree to meet in a public location, familiar to both parties
* Get a tape recorder and blank tapes in order to document the
interview
* Prepare a list of potential questions to ask the individual
At the interview:
* Arrive early at the designated location to wait for the individual
* Make sure that both parties are comfortable in their surroundings
* Explain to the individual how the interview is going to work
* Establish confidentiality limits and be sure that both parties agree on what
will be shared with others
* Be aware of the time frame of the recording tape
* Respect the individual's right not to answer a question
* Be compassionate and polite in framing questions and probing
for greater detail in responses
* Listen attentively, and actively engage the individual in
the conversation
* Allow time for further questions and exploration
* Ask for another interview if necessary