Recording an interview

Recording a one to one interview

Choose a quiet location for your interview.

When you choose your room, make sure the air conditioning is switched off and the window is closed, and switch off any fax machines/printers that could interrupt. It may seem like a small thing but the microphone picks up everything.

When interviewing, be aware that if the interviewee stutters or is hard to understand that the transcriber will also find this on trying to listen and type up the interview. You can help to make sure that anything essential required from the interview is recorded accurately by either asking the question again, asking them to repeat their answer or by you repeating the answer for the tape.

Before starting your interview, may be at the same time as explaining your project, you could mention that if any answers are unclear that you may ask them to repeat it for the sake of the tape. I found this was a great way of making them aware of the microphone and the need to get answers clear and concise as possible.

Just to recap:

1. Choose a digital recorder and choose a good quality microphone and make sure they are compatible.

2. Choose a quiet location, close window, turn off air conditioning, or any machines.

3. Place the microphones in a suitable location and test before starting your interview.

If you follow as closely as possible to the above, you should be able to cut down on the amount of mishears and inaudible words or phrases from the transcriber. Some transcription companies do charge extra for less clear audio recordings because it does take considerably longer to transcribe. If you follow our guide and use good quality equipment, you will be able to cut your costs considerably.

If you require further advice, please contact us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it and we will be pleased to assist you in any way we can.