Interview Tips

Interview Tips...

Helpful Hints for Interviewing

Asking a Holocaust survivor, liberator or Righteous Gentile to

talk about their experience may be difficult for them.

Take this into consideration when conducting the interview.

Exhibiting patience and understanding is essential.

Be aware the individual may be hard of hearing so talk slow and clear.

Before the interview:

· Phone the individual to make meeting arrangements.

· Agree to meet in a public location familiar to the individual that is not too crowded or noisy.

· Let them know the approximate length of the interview.

· Get a physical description to recognize the individual.

· Ask if they would bring a copy of one or two photos during that time.

· Ask permission to take a photo with them.

· Arrange for someone else to take the notes so you can concentrate on individual.

· Ask permission to record the interview.

· Do research on that time period and become familiar with famous places of the Holocaust.

· Prepare potential questions in chronological order: ex: pre-war years, war time years, liberation, post-war years.

· Ask questions dealing with the survivor's family, occupation and education. Inquire how these things may have helped them survive.

· Ask open ended questions like: Tell me about your family life before the war.

At the interview:

· Arrive early and wait.

· Take time to tell them about you and why you want to write their story.

· Look them in the eye and speak clearly.

· Respect the individual's time and energy level.

· Respect their right to not answer a question.

· Be a good listener and avoid interruptions.

· Don't show shock to their story but do show interest.

· You don't have to ask every question on your list.

· Ask if the individual would like to take a break.

· Clarify what you don't understand.

· Don't forget to take a photo with them if you have their permission.

· Thank them for the time and for helping you understand that time period.

It will be emotionally draining for the individual so display much gratitude.

· Ask if they'd like to see the completed story.

After the interview:

· Follow up with a thank you phone call a day or so later.

· Send a Thank You card.

· Write your story.

· Mail them a copy.

This is a great opportunity for you to walk with living history!

Deb Bowen

with Esther Avruch,

Jewish Survivor

A BOOK BY ME