Top Strategies for Gathering Information on Your Interview Subject

Effective interviewing requires thorough preparation, and one of the most crucial aspects is gathering substantial information on your interview subject. Whether you’re interviewing for a news article, research paper, or podcast episode, the right data can shape insightful questions and steer conversations in meaningful directions. Here, we explore top strategies to equip you with the essential insights needed for successful interviews.

1. Conduct Comprehensive Online Research

Begin your research with popular search engines like Google. Use keywords to find articles, press releases, or other publications related to your interview subject. This will give you a broad overview of their professional background, achievements, and public statements. In-depth online research can reveal lesser-known facts that could lead to unique interview topics.

Social media platforms are treasure troves of personal and professional insights. By examining platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook, you can uncover your subject’s interests, current projects, and connections. Understanding their online presence can help you tailor your questions to align with their most recent endeavors and achievements.

Professional networks and forums can provide detailed perspectives on your interview subject’s expertise and contributions to their field. Engaging with industry-focused groups and discussions can highlight current issues and trends that your subject may be involved with, providing a richer context to your interview.

Review Academic Papers and Journals

If your interview subject has published papers or contributed to academic journals, these works are invaluable resources. They reveal the subject’s thought processes, focus areas, and theoretical approaches. Extracting key concepts and arguments can form the basis of insightful questions that demonstrate your informed engagement with their work.

Examine Books and Authored Works

For authors, examining their books or authored works provides a deeper understanding of their expertise and narrative style. Recognize recurring themes and ideas across their publications, as these can guide your interview to uncover the subject’s underlying motivations and ideologies that permeate their work.

Look Into Media Contributions

Radio, television interviews, and podcasts where your subject has appeared are excellent sources to gauge their communication style and opinions. Analyzing these appearances can help you anticipate how they might respond during your interview, allowing you to prepare further probing questions or potential follow-ups.

3. Gather Insights From Secondary Sources

Reach out to professionals and experts within the subject’s domain for their views and assessments. These secondary insights from colleagues or competitors can add depth to your understanding and help you craft questions that probe beyond surface-level facts.