An exclusive interview is the goal of every reporter on every story. Being the only one who gets an important person to talk is the gold standard of journalism. Exclusive interviews are not a matter of luck. They involve approaching the right people in the right way. Read more to learn build strong relationships and establish a reputation as a hard knocks journalist.
Instructions
1. Identify the person you want for your exclusive interview. If they are a witness to a breaking story then you must act fast. In situations like this, it is more about finding the person than convincing them to talk. If they are a reclusive celebrity then getting an exclusive interview may be a long term project. It could require several requests in different ways and the building of a relationship with the person you want to talk to.
2. Figure out why this person wont talk to reporters. In a breaking news situation, a victim or witness may be traumatized. You must be the first reporter to get to them. Put in the extra effort to find them. Stake out their home or the homes of relatives. If they are in a hospital or police station, go inside and have someone give them a message. With a breaking news exclusive, the most aggressive reporter gets the interview. In the case of a media recluse, there may be several reasons a person won't talk. For instance, he may have been burned in previous a interview. Or he may have something to hide. Still others just want to be left alone. The reason for the refusal to talk will lead you to the best way to approach them.
3. Figure out the approach with the greatest chance of success. You must get the interview subject to realize that you understand what they are feeling. Sympathize with their pain, fear and suspicion. Don't ask for anything. Instead ask how you can help. Tell them you know the media can warp facts. Let them know that getting the truth out will improve the situation and perhaps lead to the resolution of many of underlying problems. Emphasize that you are different than other reporter and will cover the story fairly. You must exude empathy.
4. Be persistent, insistent and polite. Very often an interview subject will initially say "no". Don't get upset or rude. Sometimes the person is overwhelmed and needs some time to reflect. Your polite reaction to rejection could be just the thing to close the deal. Leave your card and let them know they can call anytime. Continue to call back, drop by, email and write letters. Every time you call, offer an additional piece of information. Remember, don't push too hard and always remain polite.
5. Build trust. Sometimes getting the big exclusive interview requires a series of baby steps. Get your interview subject to trust you with a small piece of information. Be discrete and prove to them that you can be trusted. Burning a potentially big exclusive interview for a small daily story doesn't make much sense. Stay focused on the bigger picture. Once they feel they can trust you, they will grant you an exclusive interview. Once you get a reputation as a trusted reporter, the process will become easier and easier.
6. Do the exclusive interview quickly. Often a person who is willing to talk to you will change her mind a short time later. Don't give her time to do this. Rush over to her location and start asking questions. Keep asking questions until you have asked everything. Get it on the air or in print as fast as you can.
