Writing Profiles

Writing Profiles

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  Writing Profiles
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  Step 1Choose aninterestingPersonBusiness, organization, or groupPlace (e.g. community or historical landmark)Event (e.g. annual concert, large fundraiser)
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  Step 2Do backgroundresearch: learn what you can ahead of time to prepare appropriate interview questions.
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  Step 3Develop interviewquestions that lead the interviewee to describe their:Past, present, and futureAccomplishmentsGoals and dreamsBeliefs and ideas
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  Step 4Prepare forthe interview by:Set up a time/place to meet the intervieweeArrange needed equipment (questions, writing utensils, recording device, camera)Prepare your physical presentation (e.g. dress, breath…)Arrive 5-10 minutes early; wait patiently
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  Step 5Conduct thepreliminary interview:Introduce yourself and the article’s focusAsk the easy questions (“describe your job”, etc.)Don’t be too set on your questions—follow the flow of conversationTake notes (e.g. the setting, interviewee’s appearance and body language)
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  Step 5, continued Atthe end, check over your question list. Did you forget anything important?Ask to take the interviewee’s photo (take at least two!)Thank the interviewee; explain you may contact them later for follow-up info
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  Step 6Outline yourarticle:Cut out boring informationOrganize facts and quotes Look for gaps in informationNotice interesting tidbits for use as headline, sidebar, etc.
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  Step 7If needed,prepare and conduct follow-up interviews, with the interviewee or other people.
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  Step 8Finish writingyour first draft, including choosing the photo(s) to accompany it:Open with something interesting the interviewee said or did—paint a picture!Split the story into sections, with only one main idea per paragraph; consider the most effective order of informationInclude at least one quotation per paragraphEnd with a strong sense of who the person is, done best by using a strong quotation
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  Step 9Check yourstory:Edit and copy edit your workFact check! Don’t believe everything you’re told.As a courtesy, you can show the article to the interviewee. Be clear as to whether you are open to their suggestions for changes.