write-an-interview-brief

name	write-an-interview-brief
category	write
description	Write an interview brief that aligns purpose, participant context, evidence needs, consent, questions, and production roles. Use when a recorded conversation needs focused and ethical preparation.

write-an-interview-brief

Prepare the interviewer to listen and follow evidence instead of reading a rigid script.

Procedure

1. State the editorial purpose, audience, format, duration, and decision owner.
2. Research the participant, subject, known facts, uncertainties, and relevant sensitivities.
3. Define the evidence, stories, explanations, and perspectives the interview may contribute.
4. Write open questions in a natural sequence with optional factual probes.
5. Mark topics requiring consent, care, verification, anonymity, or qualified review.
6. Record logistics, access needs, language, roles, technical setup, and release status.
7. Provide opening, correction, pause, withdrawal, and closing expectations.
8. Review the brief for leading assumptions and save the approved document.

Guardrails

• Never promise anonymity or editorial control the production cannot provide.
• Do not present disputed claims as facts inside a question.
• Avoid pressuring a participant to discuss harm or private information.

Done

• An approved interview brief records purpose, questions, evidence needs, and safeguards
• Facts, names, logistics, consent, and access needs are verified
• The interviewer and producer review the stopping and correction paths