Uncovering the Truth: What Are Informal Interviews and When You Should Use Them?

Uncovering the Truth: What Are Informal Interviews and When You Should Use Them?

Have you ever been in a situation where you wanted to gather information from someone but felt like a formal interview wouldn’t be appropriate? Maybe you were trying to gather insights from a potential customer or an experienced colleague who doesn’t have time for a formal interview. That’s where informal interviews come in.

What are Informal Interviews?

Informal interviews are unstructured conversations that are conducted without a specific agenda or list of questions. They are a flexible approach to gathering information from people because they allow you to build rapport and establish a comfortable dialogue with your interviewee. These interviews are often held in a casual setting such as a coffee shop, over the phone, or even in the interviewee’s office. The questions asked during these interviews are often open-ended and exploratory, designed to uncover insights and perspectives that a formal interview might miss.

When Should You Use Informal Interviews?

Informal interviews are a useful tool in situations where a formal interview might not be appropriate or would be intimidating. They are particularly effective when you want to explore a topic in-depth or get a personal perspective on a subject. They’re also helpful in situations where your interviewee might not have time for a formal interview. For example, if you’re trying to gather information from a busy executive or someone who is located in a different timezone, an informal interview can be a more effective way to gather the information you need.

The Benefits of Informal Interviews

One of the biggest advantages of informal interviews is the flexibility they offer. Unlike formal interviews, which can be rigid and inflexible, informal interviews allow you to be more fluid and adaptable. They can also be less intimidating for both you and your interviewee, which can result in more candid and authentic responses.

In addition, informal interviews can help you build stronger relationships with your interviewees. By getting to know them on a personal level and showing an interest in their perspectives, you can build rapport and establish a stronger connection with them. This can be especially valuable in situations where you’re trying to establish partnerships or collaborations.

Examples of When to Use Informal Interviews

Here are a few examples of situations where informal interviews might be the best approach:

– You’re trying to gather insights from a potential customer, but a formal interview might be too intimidating.
– You’re seeking advice from an experienced colleague but don’t have time for a formal interview.
– You’re exploring a new subject or industry and want to get a personal perspective on it.
– You’re building relationships with potential partners or collaborators and want to establish a comfortable dialogue.

Conclusion

Informal interviews are a valuable tool that can help you gather information and insights in a flexible, adaptable, and authentic way. By using an unstructured and exploratory approach, you can build stronger relationships with your interviewees and uncover perspectives and insights that a formal interview might miss. So, the next time you’re faced with a situation where a formal interview might not be appropriate, consider using an informal interview instead.