Interview Techniques Essay Example
Interview Techniques Essay Example

Interview Techniques Essay Example

Available Only on StudyHippo
Topics:
  • Pages: 5 (1188 words)
  • Published: April 13, 2017
  • Type: Essay
View Entire Sample
Text preview

Noel Gallagher is featured as a guest on both the talk shows I will be analyzing. Despite the contrasting styles employed by Jonathan Ross and Michael Parkinson, they both succeed in eliciting similar information from Noel. The depth and tone of the answers differ between the two interviews, which directly correlates with the communication styles of the interviewers. Both interviews last approximately 17 minutes and are interrupted by commercial breaks. These breaks appear to provide an opportunity for both interviews to delve into subject matter that Noel may not have been as open about previously.

Parkinson utilizes various questioning techniques that cater to the needs of individuals within organizations. He mainly employs reflective questions to demonstrate interest and gather additional information from Noel. In addition, he employs probing questions to obtain a thorough and comprehensive answer. Conversely, Ross favors utilizing multiple questi

...

ons that occasionally perplex Noel and make it challenging for him to respond.

According to Huczynski and Buchanan (2007), Ross uses leading questions as a technique to ensure that Noel gives the desired answers. Both interviewers employ nonverbal communication techniques, which can impact the interview outcome and convey hidden messages that assist the outcome (Slocum and Hellriegel 2009). Michael Parkinson successfully elicits more raw information from Noel, particularly concerning his upbringing and experiences of violence and struggle. Parkinson consistently appears genuinely interested, leaning forward with an open body posture and using open hand gestures.

The text highlights how Parkinson demonstrates interest and attentiveness towards his guest, Noel. He avoids being defensive and ensures that Noel feels like the focus of his questions. Parkinson actively listens to Noel's answers, refraining from talking over him and using pauses an

View entire sample
Join StudyHippo to see entire essay

other communication techniques to convey that he is genuinely listening. Despite being the interviewer, Parkinson allows Noel to speak freely. In addition to his open body language, Ross occasionally displays power tells.

Both Noel and Ross sometimes display a tendency to challenge male dominance. They both sit back in their chairs, projecting an air of arrogance with their chests puffed out. At times, their behavior suggests they may not be as invested as they should be. Ross often uses Noel as a means to generate humor, sometimes overshadowing his guest's shine in his pursuit of the next punch line (Huczynski and Buchanan, 2007). In comparison, Ross seems to lack the same level of social intelligence as Parkinson (Huczynski and Buchanan, 2007).

The humor in the interview may prevent him from noticing Noel's reluctance to discuss a certain topic. Despite this, Ross continues to inquire about the potential reunion of Noel's previous band Oasis for an anniversary event. Instead of getting the definite answer he desires, Ross receives a joke in response. In contrast, Parkinson seems to understand Noel more effectively. Although he occasionally makes Noel uncomfortable by discussing the more tumultuous aspects of his childhood, particularly concerning his father.

During the interviews, Noel displays signs of discomfort, but he does not avoid any of the questions. Despite taking his time, he provides clear and detailed answers, although they appear to be censored (Robbins, DeCenzo, and Coulter 2011). Nonetheless, both interviews proceed smoothly without any significant issues, and the interviewers return to their preferred topics. Parkinson persistently focuses his questions on the same subject to ensure Noel stays on track.

Ross's interview with Noel doesn't seem to have a specific

direction, but Ross is happy to allow Noel to go off topic as it leads to banter and jokes. Instead of having a structured interview, Ross seems more focused on making certain jokes and tries to shape the interview around them. It was evident from the start of the Parkinson interview that Ross would be exploring Noel's life, especially his time before and during Oasis, rather than discussing his new album.

Despite their differing interview styles, both Parkinson and Ross focused on the sibling rivalry in Oasis, but received different answers from Noel Gallagher. Parkinson's active listening allowed him to delve deeper and get Noel to share more information, while Ross's interview seemed more superficial and lacked integrity. In his response to Parkinson, Noel gave a reasoned explanation for his strained relationship with his brother. In contrast, his response to Ross was simpler, stating that they simply don't get along. This difference in interviews highlights the importance of effective communication dynamics, as it allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the interviewee's perspective (Slocum and Hellriegel 2009). Groff and Jones (2003) emphasize that diversity in viewpoints brings strength, adaptability, and insight (pg57).

This facilitates an enjoyable interview but does not reveal any fresh information or truly demonstrate any specific talent. Despite the varying styles of the interviewers, they both suit the purpose of their respective shows. Parkinson employs well-prepared conventional statements and customary sayings as a preamble to his questions, but occasionally it can seem as if a team of researchers has provided him with lines rather than him being genuinely interested and discovering for himself. This can sometimes seem artificial, and although it is advantageous to

exhibit an interest in his guest, at times it appears insincere.

Ross also attempts to demonstrate interest in his guests by proclaiming himself a "big fan" and expressing a desire to witness their performances. However, this approach may be perceived as insincere. It might be more effective for Ross to minimize his humor and remember that the guest is the main focus of the interview, not himself. Sometimes, Ross's comedic talents can overwhelm his guests, resulting in an interview dominated by his monologue rather than engaging dialogue (Slocum and Hellriegel 2009). Parkinson could also improve by displaying empathy towards his guests.

Whilst demonstrating proficiency in social intelligence, he faces challenges in emotional intelligence (Huczynski and Buchanan, 2007). This could potentially stem from cultural and generational disparities between himself and Noel, but addressing this issue could help mitigate any discomfort and insecurities experienced by guests. Conducting interviews is an effective means of obtaining additional insights from individuals; however, the choice of questioning should be approached cautiously to elicit the desired responses (Huczynski and Buchanan, 2007). Although both interviews presented here were conducted for entertainment purposes, they exemplify the ups and downs of the interviewing process.

Finding the appropriate level of formality can be challenging in interviews. Ultimately, the interviewer knows what they are seeking from the interviewee and hopes to extract it using their skills. However, this can hinder the interview process. Interviews are not always reliable as the interviewer's bias can influence the direction of the interview, leaving little to no opportunity for the interviewee to showcase additional valuable information. The interviewer tends to favor individuals with similar attitudes or those who align with their line of questioning

(Robbins, DeCenzo, and Coulter, 2011).

The text emphasizes that the best use of showcasing someone's personality and expanding existing knowledge is to mainly focus on this purpose, rather than seeking new information. The following bibliography contains references: Groff, T and Jones, T (2003) Introduction to knowledge management, Butterworth Heinmanm; Huczynski and Buchanan (2007), Organizational Behaviour, 7/e, 2010 Prentice Hall / Financial Times; Robbins, DeCenzo and Coulter (2011) Fundamentals of Management, Pearson; Slocum, Hellriegal (2009) Principles of organizational behaviour, South Western.

Get an explanation on any task
Get unstuck with the help of our AI assistant in seconds
New