Oral History Interview & Importance Part 9

Presentation is vital

Hamid Qazvini
Translated by Natalie Haghverdian

2017-6-12

Presentation is vital in the interview and is another step of the way which affects the attitude of the narrator towards the scholar. Presentation in the first session is of higher importance since it builds the cornerstone for further dialogue; starting a good session with proper management entices the narrator to continue dialogue. This turning point has pre-requisites as listed below.

1. Accurate Location Address

The address for the interview location should be properly understood by both parties for punctuality reasons and avoid any unnecessary travel distances and consequently delays. One of the dilemmas arises when one party is unfamiliar with the routes to the destination which results in delay and loss of interview effective time and exhaustion.  

1. Punctuality

It is the duty of the interviewer to adjust travel time with due consideration of the traffic to arrive at the interview location minutes prior to start. It is of vital importance since the narrator shall not be left waiting for the interviewer. The interview held in the premises of the narrator or otherwise, the interviewer shall be present minutes before to respect the dignity of the narrator and make proper arrangements in due time. Also, the interviewer shall attend the premises with respect and consideration of ethics and pay close attention to the guidance of the narrator. The interviewer shall decide the location in consultation with the narrator to avoid any complications and dilemma on the side of the narrator and his/her family.

1. Departure and Arrival Coordination

One of the problems usually observed in interviews is lack of coordination for departure and arrival in the interview team of the narrator. For instance, in many occasions the interview team experiences fleet of security issues while accessing various organizations where multiple individuals have to enter carrying equipment. This hurdles the interview process and violates the rights of both parties. Hence, it is crucial to manage required coordination prior to departure.  

1. Entourage

The interviewer shall avoid unnecessary entourage and maintain the interview team in its minimum. Also, it is essential for the team to enter all at once and avoid individual frequent entrance to avoid delays in the process and inconvenience.

1. Appearance

The interviewer’s apparent presentation shall be desirable and proper. Improper clothing and messy appearance tarnishes the interviewer’s image and adversely affects the interview process. Obviously, titivation and hygiene has positive effect in the attitude of the narrator. The important point is that the interviewer shall consider the values and beliefs of the narrator and relevant sensitivities in this aspect and avoid any undesirable or unacceptable or controversial appearance.

Also, the interviewer shall notify the narrator in case of any issues with his/her appearance to take proper photos and pictures during the interview.

Oral History Interview & Importance Part 1 - Oral History, Path to Cultural Dialogue

Oral History Interview & Importance Part 2 - Characteristics of an Interviewer

Oral History Interview & Importance Part 3 - Selecting a Subject

Oral History Interview & Importance Part 4 - Narrator Identification & Selection

Oral History Interview & Importance Part 5 - Goal Setting

Oral History Interview & Importance Part 6 - Importance of Pre-interview Data Collection

Oral History Interview & Importance Part 7 - To Schedule & Coordinate an Interview

Oral History Interview & Importance Part 8 - Required Equipment & Accessories