Scheduling Interviews & Time to Write

Right about now my calendar is full and trying to schedule interviews is like trying to navigate the Bermuda Triangle. Oh, and the kids are done school tomorrow. Ha. Ha. I can hear God laughing now.

It all gets done though, it always does. I have been writing from home since ’99 and many a time the children are here. (Now that they are older it is easier). Also, the interviews mostly get done. More than anything, the interviews get cancelled or postponed because of a conflict on the interviewees end. Occasionally I am stood up. I have learned a few things:

1. Try, try, try  to contact interviewees the day you get the assignment so you have plenty of time for mishaps

2. Schedule a telephone interview appointment with the person or assistant for a specific  date, time and length. This avoids the “he will call you back at no specific time and you have to wait by the phone” scenario.

3. Get multiple phone numbers for the contact

4. Email to confirm interview and forward along main questions (if possible)

5. If you are given numerous days and times, pick the earliest one to allow for cancellations etc.

6. Tape the call and take notes

7. Follow up interview with email if you have remaining questions.

8. Be super courteous and professional because you might be interviewing this person again (and again).