Idea 83: Structuring the interview
Structuring or planning the interview is necessary if it is to avoid becoming a shapeless conversation. The amount of structure will depend on the purpose of the interview and your own experience. The more experienced you are, the less you will need a preplanned structure of questions to be asked. You should always, however, have a note of the main questions or issues you want to ask or raise.
Like games of chess, interviews have a beginning, middle and end. Each requires skill, as does making the transitions from one part to the other. This table may help to clarify this.
| Opening | Introduce yourself and mention any other important factors. Confirm the purpose of the meeting straight away. Put the other person ... |
