A.C.E. Writers

Authors write about themselves and other authors. These Author Interviews offer an inside glimmer of what goes on behind the scene when authors write. In some cases the author tells all and figures it’s best that everyone know. Then there are the authors who believe their story should shine alone. In either case, the author is a valuable commodity – without the author, not a single story would be told.

Ava Betz Presents: Historic Value Interviews

“The reason you do an interview is not as important as the information you get from the interview.”

~ Ava Betz

1.       Know something abut the subject

a)      The era

b)      Government Programs

c)       Time span

        Study topic of interview

2.       Make notes even if you’re taping to make interviewee feel important

a)      Write notes

b)      Ask questions

c)       Stay focused on content

        Don’t allow your interview to get off topic without reason – be focused.

3.       Have a purpose of interview

a)      Hone in on topic/ purpose

b)      Allow for rambles that intrigue you

c)       Be open to dig deeper

4.       Artifacts

a)      Take time to look

b)      Consider tangible enhancement

c)       Discuss artifacts and subjects

5.       Location

a)      Surroundings enhance interview

b)      Neutral zone (museum, outdoors) offers visual triggers

c)       Memorable setting with influence (allow setting to lead conversation)

6.       Take a Picture

a)      Photos enhance publication of articles

b)      Scrapbooking – photo reminds  you of subjects

c)       Photos give substance to story

7.       Time – how long

a)      Purpose or goal

b)      Capture Profile or facts

c)       Concept development

8.       Establish personal knowledge

a)      Age and birth place

b)      Status – marital/professional

c)       Career – children

9.       Relate to known events – outside interview topic

a)      Capture vivid moments your interviewee remembers (Kennedy’s death)

b)      Find out what influenced your subject (a war or ability)

c)       Forge a connection with audience (relate to the reader)

d)      Relate outside your topic (political/social/personal/professional)

10.   Deal with hostility

a)      Remain cool

b)      Steer clear of topic (change the subject)

c)       Approach with a different angle

d)      Agree with them and move on

Always write down characteristics you notice as they speak, short simple words that effectively note items of interest for reader. (Played with hair, expressive eyes, manner of dress, phrasing.)