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10 essential tips for crafting an effective interview essay.

Unlock the magic of storytelling by capturing the essence of human experiences through the power of interviews. Going beyond just words on a page, an interview essay transforms a simple conversation into a captivating narrative that engages readers on a deep and emotional level. By delving into the intricacies of someone’s thoughts, experiences, and insights, an interview essay brings a unique perspective to the table, allowing readers to immerse themselves in a world of diverse voices and compelling narratives.

With the interview essay, you have the opportunity to weave a rich tapestry of perspectives, uncovering hidden gems of wisdom that often go unnoticed in everyday life. As you engage in thoughtful conversations with individuals from different walks of life, you unravel unique stories that have the power to educate, inspire, and enlighten readers. Through the artful use of quotes, anecdotes, and vivid descriptions, an interview essay breathes life into the pages, creating an intimate connection between the reader and the interview subject.

Mastering the art of the interview essay requires not only strong interviewing skills but also empathy, curiosity, and the ability to connect with people on a deeper level. By listening intently and asking thought-provoking questions, you can encourage interviewees to open up, share their experiences, and provide insights that transcend the surface level. With each interview, you embark on a journey of discovery, peeling back the layers of someone’s life and inviting readers to join you on this transformative expedition.

Choosing the Right Interviewee

When embarking on the journey of conducting an interview, the first and crucial step is selecting the right interviewee. This step requires careful consideration and evaluation to ensure a successful and meaningful interview. The interviewee plays a pivotal role in shaping the tone and direction of the interview, bringing unique perspectives, experiences, and insights to the conversation.

One important aspect to consider when choosing an interviewee is their expertise and knowledge in the subject matter. Look for individuals who possess deep understanding and experience in the area of interest. This will contribute to the richness and authenticity of the interview, allowing for in-depth discussions and a deeper exploration of the topic.

Another factor to consider is the interviewee’s articulation and communication skills. A great interviewee should be able to express their thoughts and ideas clearly and effectively. Look for individuals who have the ability to convey their thoughts in a coherent and concise manner, as it will enhance the overall quality of the interview.

Furthermore, it is valuable to select an interviewee who is open-minded and willing to share their perspectives openly. This fosters an environment of trust and encourages candid discussions during the interview. Seek interviewees who are comfortable expressing their opinions and are receptive to exploring different viewpoints.

Additionally, it is essential to consider the interviewee’s availability and willingness to participate in the interview. Ensure that the individual is committed and available for the agreed-upon interview date and time. This will ensure a smooth and hassle-free process, allowing for ample preparations and scheduling.

Overall, selecting the right interviewee is a vital step in the interview process. By considering factors such as expertise, communication skills, openness, and availability, you can ensure that your interview is engaging, informative, and insightful.

Preparing a List of Questions

When it comes to conducting an interview, one of the most important steps is preparing a thoughtful and engaging list of questions. A well-crafted set of questions can not only help you gather the necessary information for your interview essay, but it can also create a dynamic and engaging conversation with your interviewee.

To begin, it’s important to consider the purpose of your interview and what you hope to learn from your interviewee. Whether you are writing a profile on a notable individual or exploring a specific topic, your questions should be targeted and focused. Think about the key information you want to gather and structure your questions accordingly.

When crafting your questions, it’s also important to strike a balance between open-ended and specific inquiries. Open-ended questions allow your interviewee to share their thoughts and experiences in more depth, while specific questions can help guide the conversation and ensure you obtain the information you need.

Additionally, it’s helpful to consider the interviewee’s background and expertise when formulating your questions. Tailoring your questions to their unique perspective and experiences can help elicit more thoughtful and insightful responses. Doing some preliminary research on your interviewee can provide valuable context and inform the types of questions you ask.

Lastly, don’t be afraid to be flexible and adapt your questions in the moment. Interviewing is a dynamic process, and sometimes the best insights and stories come from unexpected avenues of conversation. Allow the interview to unfold naturally and be prepared to adjust your questions based on the flow of the dialogue.

Remember, the goal of preparation is not to rigidly stick to a script, but rather to have a well-thought-out framework that can guide the conversation and help you achieve your objectives as an interviewer.

Conducting the Interview

When it comes to the process of gathering information for your interview essay, the stage of conducting the interview is crucial. This is the moment when you will have the opportunity to engage with your interviewee and extract valuable insights to create a compelling narrative. The effectiveness of your interview will greatly depend on your preparation, approach, and ability to establish trust and rapport with the person you are interviewing.

Preparation: Before conducting the interview, it is essential to thoroughly research and familiarize yourself with the topic and the person you will be interviewing. This will not only help you ask informed and relevant questions but also show your interviewee that you are genuinely interested and invested in the conversation. Take the time to identify key areas you want to explore, as well as any specific questions you may have.

Approach: When you actually sit down with your interviewee, it is important to approach the interview with a professional yet friendly demeanor. Introduce yourself and explain the purpose of the interview, highlighting the value it will bring. Make sure to actively listen, allowing the conversation to flow naturally. Use open-ended questions to encourage your interviewee to share their thoughts and experiences in depth. Additionally, keep in mind that body language and non-verbal cues play a significant role in building rapport, so strive to maintain eye contact and exhibit attentive body language.

Establishing Trust and Rapport: To create a comfortable and trusting environment, it is crucial to show genuine interest, empathy, and respect for your interviewee’s perspectives and experiences. Actively listening and responding empathetically will help build rapport and allow your interviewee to open up and share their insights more freely. It is also essential to be mindful of any sensitive topics or boundaries that your interviewee may have and to approach them with sensitivity and tact.

By carefully preparing for the interview, approaching it with professionalism and empathy, and focusing on building trust and rapport, you will set the stage for a successful and insightful conversation that will serve as a foundation for your interview essay.

Transcribing and Organizing the Material

One of the essential steps in creating a well-rounded interview essay is the transcription and organization of the material gathered during the interview process. After conducting the interview, the next crucial task is to transcribe the recorded audio or written notes into a readable format.

Transcribing the interview material involves carefully listening to the audio recording or reviewing the written notes and converting them into a written document. This process requires keen attention to detail and accuracy to ensure that the interviewee’s words are accurately represented in the final essay.

Once the material is transcribed, it is essential to organize it in a logical and coherent manner. This involves identifying the main ideas and key points discussed during the interview and arranging them in a structured outline. By organizing the material, it becomes easier to identify the flow of thoughts, highlight important quotes, and create a cohesive narrative for the essay.

In addition to structuring the material, it is also crucial to categorize the information based on relevant themes or topics. This helps in creating a comprehensive and well-structured essay that covers all aspects of the interview. By organizing the material into distinct sections, it becomes easier to focus on specific areas and present the information in a clear and concise manner.

Overall, transcribing and organizing the material is a crucial step in the process of writing an interview essay. It ensures that the information gathered during the interview is accurately represented and presented in a well-structured manner. By giving careful attention to detail and organizing the material effectively, the essay can effectively convey the interviewee’s thoughts and experiences to the reader.

Crafting the Essay

Creating a well-crafted essay is the essential next step after conducting a successful interview. This part of the process involves carefully structuring your thoughts and findings, and presenting them in a clear and engaging manner.

One effective way to approach the crafting of your essay is to make use of a table. This table can act as a visual tool to help you organize and outline the key points and themes that emerged from your interview. By visually mapping out these elements, you can ensure that your essay has a logical flow and a coherent structure.

In addition to using a table, it is important to consider the tone and style of your essay. While it should be professional and objective, it is also important to infuse it with your own unique voice and perspective. This will help to make your essay more engaging and personal, allowing the reader to connect with the subject and the insights you gained from the interview.

When crafting your essay, it is also important to consider the target audience. Who will be reading your essay and what do they hope to gain from it? Tailoring your language and content to suit the needs and expectations of your audience will help to ensure that your essay is effective in conveying the key messages and ideas you want to communicate.

Finally, don’t forget to proofread and edit your essay before submitting it. Pay attention to grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors, as well as the overall clarity and organization of your writing. Taking the time to refine and polish your essay will greatly enhance its impact and make it more enjoyable for the reader.

Tips for Crafting the Essay
Use a table to visually organize your key points and themes
Infuse your essay with your own voice and perspective
Consider your target audience and tailor your language and content accordingly
Proofread and edit your essay to ensure clarity and correctness

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Home ➔ How to Write an Essay ➔ Interview Essay

Interview Essay Guide

An interview essay is a written composition that presents the insights, experiences, and viewpoints of an individual obtained through a structured conversation or interview. This type of essay goes beyond merely summarizing the interviewee’s responses; it integrates narrative storytelling with analytical components to provide a comprehensive perspective on the subject matter.

An interview essay offers a unique platform to capture insights, personal experiences, and expert knowledge directly from the source. Here’s what makes it special:

• Personal Connection: Establishes a personal link between the interviewee and the reader.
• Diverse Perspectives: Showcases varied viewpoints on a subject or issue.
• Depth of Insight: Provides in-depth understanding often missing in third-party accounts.
• Authentic Voice: Captures the authentic voice and experiences of the interviewee.

Overview of the Process

Creating an engaging and informative interview essay involves several key steps:

• Identify Interviewee: Selecting a person who has relevant knowledge or experience.
• Research: Gathering background information to formulate meaningful questions.
• Question Design: Crafting questions that elicit detailed and thoughtful responses.
• Setting: Choosing a comfortable environment conducive to conversation.
• Technique: Employing active listening and strategic questioning.
• Recording: Ensuring accurate capture of the interviewee’s words.
• Transcription: Converting the spoken word into written form.
• Analysis: Identifying key themes and notable quotes.
• Organization: Structuring the essay for maximum impact.
• Introduction : Presenting the interviewee and framing the topic.
• Body: Weaving together narrative and analysis, enriched with direct quotes.
• Conclusion : Reflecting on the insights gained and their broader implications.
• Proofreading: Correcting grammatical and spelling errors.
• Refining: Enhancing clarity, flow, and coherence of the essay.

This process results in an essay that not only conveys valuable information but also provides a window into the personal experiences and perspectives of the interviewee, making it a powerful tool in both journalistic and academic contexts.

Preparation Stage for an Interview Essay

The preparation stage is crucial for laying the groundwork for a successful interview essay. This phase involves thoughtful planning and consideration in several key areas:

Choosing the Interviewee

When selecting an interviewee for your essay, it’s essential to consider several factors to ensure that your interview is informative and engaging. Here’s a more detailed look at the key aspects to consider:

• Expertise or Experience: Look for individuals who have direct experience or specialized knowledge in the topic you’re exploring. This ensures that their insights are grounded in personal experience or professional expertise.
• Contribution to Topic: Consider how the potential interviewee’s background or experiences can contribute unique perspectives or deepen the understanding of your topic.
• Current Relevance: Preferably choose someone whose experience or expertise is currently relevant or topical, as this can add immediacy and interest to your essay.

Accessibility

• Availability: Confirm that the potential interviewee can participate within your timeframe. Scheduling conflicts or unavailability can delay or change your essay plans.
• Willingness to Participate: Ensure that the interviewee is available and willing to share their experiences and thoughts openly. An enthusiastic participant often provides more in-depth and engaging responses.
• Communication Ease: Consider the ease of communication with the interviewee, especially if dealing with different time zones, languages, or cultural backgrounds.
• Varied Perspectives: Seek out interviewees who can offer different perspectives from your own or from what is commonly represented in discussions about your topic. This diversity can add depth and breadth to your essay.
• Underrepresented Voices: Actively look for voices often underrepresented in your topic’s discourse. Including these perspectives can provide a more comprehensive and inclusive understanding of the subject matter.
• Cultural and Background Diversity: Consider choosing interviewees from different cultural backgrounds, professions, or life experiences. This diversity can bring a richer and more varied range of insights to your essay.

By carefully considering these factors when choosing your interviewee, you can ensure that your interview essay is informative and relevant and rich in perspective and depth, offering readers a well-rounded and insightful exploration of your chosen topic.

Researching the Interview Subject

Conducting thorough research before the interview is crucial for crafting meaningful questions and understanding the context of the interviewee’s responses. Here’s a more detailed approach to researching your interview subject:

Background Information

• Professional Background: Investigate the interviewee’s career path, including their current position, past roles, and any notable achievements in their field. This information can provide context to their responses and highlight their expertise.
• Educational History: Look into their educational background, including any relevant degrees, certifications, or training pertinent to the interview topic.
• Publications or Contributions: If applicable, review any publications, articles, or projects the interviewee has worked on. This can give you insights into their areas of interest and expertise.
• Personal Story: Where relevant, learn about the interviewee’s personal journey, including life experiences that may have shaped their perspectives. This can add a more human dimension to your essay.

Subject Matter

• Current Trends and Debates: Understand the current trends, debates, and recent developments related to the interview topic. This helps in formulating timely and relevant questions.
• Historical Context: Explore the historical background of the topic to provide a more comprehensive understanding during the interview.
• Relevant News and Events: Stay informed about any recent news or events related to the interview subject or the interviewee’s field of expertise.

Purpose Alignment

• Align with Essay Objectives: Ensure that your research aligns with the overall objectives and angle of your essay. Focus on gathering information that supports or enriches your essay’s intended narrative or argument.
• Identify Gaps in Existing Literature: Look for areas within the topic that haven’t been extensively covered in existing literature. This can guide you to explore new angles or under-discussed issues during the interview.
• Relevance to Audience: Consider what aspects of the interviewee’s background and the subject matter will be most relevant and engaging to your target audience. Tailoring your research to your audience’s interests can make the essay more impactful.

By thoroughly researching both the interviewee’s background and the broader context of the subject matter, you ensure that your interview essay is well-informed, relevant, and engaging, providing your readers with a comprehensive and insightful look into the topic.

Formulating Interview Questions

The right set of questions is pivotal for eliciting insightful and meaningful responses during the interview. Here’s a more detailed approach to formulating effective interview questions:

Open-Ended Questions

• Encourage Exploration: Design questions that encourage the interviewee to elaborate on their thoughts and experiences. For example, “Can you describe a significant challenge you faced in your career and how you overcame it?”
• Avoid Yes/No Responses: Frame questions to avoid simple yes or no answers. Instead, aim for questions that require a narrative or explanation.
• Personal Insights: Ask questions that allow the interviewee to reflect on their personal journey or opinions, such as, “What motivated you to pursue this field?”

Focused Questions

• Direct Relevance: Ensure each question is directly tied to the main subject of your essay. If the topic is specific, your questions should align closely with it.
• Specificity: Avoid overly broad questions. Instead, ask about specific events, decisions, or opinions for more detailed insights.
• Objective Clarity: Each question should have a clear objective and contribute to the overall narrative or goal of the interview.

Follow-Up Questions

• Depth and Detail: Prepare to ask follow-up questions that delve deeper into topics uncovered during the interview. For instance, “You mentioned a turning point in your career. Could you tell me more about that?”
• Responsive Inquiries: Base your follow-up questions on the interviewee’s responses to encourage a more natural and engaging conversation.
• Clarification: Use follow-up questions to clarify or expand upon interesting points, ensuring you fully understand the interviewee’s perspective.

Ethical Sensitivity

• Respect Boundaries: Be mindful of personal or sensitive topics. If the conversation veers into potentially uncomfortable territory, be prepared to steer it back respectfully.
• Informed Consent: Ensure the interviewee knows they can decline to answer any question.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Be aware of cultural differences that might affect how questions are perceived and adjust your approach accordingly.

By thoughtfully formulating your interview questions, you can create a conducive environment for a rich and informative dialogue. This preparation helps in capturing the depth and nuances of the interviewee’s experiences and perspectives, making your interview essay more engaging and insightful.

Preparing for Different Interview Formats

Ethical Considerations

Ethical considerations are fundamental in conducting interviews, especially when the information is intended for publication in an essay. Respecting the interviewee’s rights and maintaining integrity throughout the process is essential.

• Informed Consent: Clearly inform the interviewee about the purpose of the interview, how the information will be used, and where it will be published.
• Written Agreement: Ideally, obtain written consent, especially if the interview will be recorded or sensitive topics will be discussed. This helps to avoid any misunderstandings about the use of the interviewee’s information.
• Recording Consent: Explicitly ask for written permission to record the interview, whether audio or video. Explain how the recording will be used and stored.
• Withdrawal Option: Ensure the interviewee knows they have the right to withdraw consent at any point, even after the completed interview.
• Confidential Information: Agree in advance on what information is off the record or confidential. Respect these boundaries in your essay.
• Anonymity Option: Offer the option of anonymity, mainly if sensitive topics are discussed or if requested by the interviewee.
• Data Protection: Follow data protection laws and regulations, especially when handling personal information or using the interview publicly.
• Faithful Representation: Commit to accurately representing the interviewee’s words and sentiments in your essay. Avoid taking statements out of context or altering their meaning.
• Review by Interviewee: Consider allowing the interviewee to review the sections where their quotes or information are used. This can ensure accuracy and build trust.
• Transparency in Editing: Be transparent about any edits made to the interviewee’s responses for clarity or brevity. Ensure that these edits do not distort the meaning.

Adhering to these ethical considerations not only ensures the integrity of the interview process but also builds trust and respect between the interviewer and the interviewee. This approach leads to more honest and open conversations, ultimately enriching the quality of the interview essay.

Conducting the Interview

The success of an interview essay largely hinges on how effectively the interview itself is conducted. This stage requires a blend of interpersonal skills, strategic questioning, and attentive listening.

Strategies for Asking Questions

• Start Broad, Then Narrow Down: Before moving to more specific topics, begin with general questions.
• Encourage Storytelling: Ask questions inviting interviewees to share experiences or anecdotes.
• Avoid Leading Questions: Frame questions neutrally to elicit unbiased responses.
• Be Adaptive: Be prepared to deviate from your prepared questions based on the conversation flow.

Techniques for Active Listening and Follow-Up Questions

• Show Engagement: Nodding and affirmative responses indicate active listening.
• Clarify and Confirm: Ask follow-up questions for clarification or to delve deeper into a topic.
• Paraphrase Responses: Occasionally restate critical points to ensure understanding.
• Avoid Interruptions: Let the interviewee complete their thoughts before asking new questions.

Note-Taking and Recording Methods

• Choose Your Method: Decide between taking handwritten interview notes, typing, or audio recording.
• Be Discreet: Ensure your note-taking doesn’t disrupt the interview flow.
• Audio Recording: If recording, check equipment beforehand and obtain consent.
• Key Points: Focus on capturing the essence of responses rather than verbatim notes.

Conducting the interview with these considerations in mind ensures a productive and respectful dialogue. This approach not only garners detailed and thoughtful responses but also builds a rapport that can add depth and authenticity to your interview essay.

Organizing Interview Information

After conducting the interview, the next critical step is to organize the gathered information effectively. This process involves transcribing the conversation, identifying key themes, and selecting impactful quotes and anecdotes.

Transcribing the Interview

• Accuracy: Transcribe the interview as accurately as possible, preserving the interviewee’s words and expressions.
• Format: Decide whether to transcribe verbatim or to paraphrase for clarity and brevity.
• Tools: If available, utilize transcription software or services to expedite the process.
• Review: Go through the transcription multiple times to ensure completeness and accuracy.

Identifying Key Themes and Insights

• Read Thoroughly: Read the transcription several times to fully understand the content.
• Highlight Key Points: Mark significant statements, insights, and recurring themes.
• Categorize Information: Group similar ideas together to form coherent sections or themes.
• Relevance to Essay Goals: Align themes and insights with the purpose and objectives of your essay.

Selecting Quotes and Anecdotes for Inclusion

• Impactful Quotes: Choose quotes that effectively convey the interviewee’s perspective or personality.
• Narrative Value: Select anecdotes that add depth or provide illustrative examples relevant to the topic.
• Balance: Ensure a good mix of quotes and anecdotes throughout the essay for variety and interest.
• Context: Provide sufficient background information for each quote or anecdote to make sense to the reader.

When you begin writing the essay, organizing the interview information methodically allows for a clearer and more structured approach. This process ensures that the interview’s most significant and relevant parts are highlighted, providing a solid foundation for the essay’s narrative.

How to Write an Interview Essay

Writing the interview essay involves several key steps, from choosing the right format to blending narrative and analysis. Your preparation and organization come together in this stage to create a compelling and informative piece.

Choose Your Essay Format

The format of your interview essay is pivotal in determining how your content is structured and conveyed to the reader. Here’s an expanded look at the three primary formats:

Narrative Format

• Storytelling Approach: This format weaves the interviewee’s experiences and perspectives into a narrative, engaging the reader emotionally and intellectually.
• Chronological Flow: Often, the narrative follows a chronological order, but it can also be structured around a central event or a pivotal moment in the interviewee’s life.
• Descriptive and Engaging: Rich in descriptive details, this format allows the writer to explore the interviewee’s emotions, settings, and background, offering a deep dive into their personal journey.
• Ideal Use: Best suited for essays that aim to provide an in-depth look at an individual’s life, experiences, or viewpoints, such as personal profiles or biographical pieces.

Question-and-Answer Format

• Direct Dialogue: This format closely mimics the actual conversation, presenting the questions and answers as they occurred. It maintains the interview’s original tone and flow.
• Clarity and Authenticity: The question-and-answer structure is straightforward, allowing readers to clearly see the interviewer’s inquiries and the interviewee’s responses.
• Minimal Narration: The writer’s voice is typically less prominent, with the focus being on the interviewee’s responses.
• Ideal Use: This format works well for interviews with technical or highly specialized content or when the interviewee’s words carry significant weight and authority.

Thematic Format

• Theme-Centered: Rather than following the chronological order of the interview or a strict Q&A format, this approach organizes the essay around key themes or topics that emerge from the interview.
• Depth of Analysis: It allows for an in-depth exploration of each theme, providing a comprehensive view of the subject matter.
• Non-Linear Structure: The writer can rearrange the content to focus on the most relevant or compelling themes, regardless of their order in the original interview.
• Ideal Use: Particularly effective for complex topics that benefit from a nuanced exploration, such as academic research, exploratory journalism, or issues with multiple viewpoints.

Outline the Essay

Creating a well-structured outline is a crucial step in writing your interview essay. It helps to organize your thoughts and ensure a logical flow of information. Here’s a more detailed approach to outlining the three main parts of the essay:

Introduction

• Introducing the Interviewee: Begin by presenting your interviewee. Include their name, relevant professional titles or roles, and why they are a significant figure for your essay topic .
• Background Information: Provide essential background information about the interviewee. This might include their professional achievements, personal history, or unique experiences relevant to the interview topic.
• Purpose of the Interview: Clarify the purpose of the interview. Explain what prompted the interview and what you aim to explore or uncover through it.
• Thesis Statement : End the introduction with a thesis statement or a primary question the interview will address. This gives the reader a clear idea of what to expect from the essay.
• Organizing by Themes or Topics: Divide the body into sections, each focusing on different aspects or themes that emerged from the interview. In a thematic or narrative format, these sections might cover various topics or stories. In a Q&A format, they might be organized around specific questions and answers.
• Supporting Details: For each section, include supporting details from the interview, such as direct quotes, anecdotes, or specific insights provided by the interviewee.
• Analysis and Interpretation: Add your analysis or interpretation of the interviewee’s responses. Discuss how their insights contribute to the overall topic or your understanding of the subject matter.
• Transitions: Ensure each section flows smoothly into the next. Use transitional phrases to maintain a coherent narrative or argument throughout the essay.
• Summarizing Key Points: Recap the main themes or insights discussed in the essay. This summary should reflect back on the thesis statement or primary question posed in the introduction.
• Reflecting on Insights Gained: Reflect on what you learned from the interview. Discuss how the interviewee’s perspectives have contributed to a deeper understanding of the topic.
• Broader Implications: If applicable, comment on the broader implications of the interview. This might include how the insights gained relate to larger societal, cultural, or professional issues.
• Closing Thoughts: Conclude with final thoughts or a closing statement that leaves the reader with something to ponder or consider further.

A well-crafted outline not only helps in organizing the essay effectively but also ensures that all key elements from the interview are highlighted and woven into a cohesive narrative or argument.

Blend Narrative and Analysis

Blending narrative and analysis in an interview essay is an art. It involves weaving the interviewee’s personal stories with your own interpretative insights, creating an informative and engaging piece. Here’s a deeper look into how to achieve this balance:

Personal Voice

• Storytelling: Integrate the interviewee’s personal stories and experiences as a fundamental part of the essay. Use direct quotes and vivid descriptions to bring these stories to life.
• First-Person Perspective: Consider using the first person, especially in a narrative format, to create a more intimate and personal tone. Share your own reflections or reactions to the interviewee’s stories where appropriate.
• Character Depth: Portray the interviewee as a full-fledged character. Include details about their personality, emotions, and background to make them relatable and real to the reader.
• Relatability: Aim to connect the interviewee’s experiences to universal themes or broader human experiences. This approach helps the reader to empathize with and understand the interviewee on a deeper level.

Analytical Insights

• Interpretative Lens: Provide your own analysis or interpretation of what the interviewee says. This could involve drawing connections to broader themes, offering critique, or providing context that the interviewee might not have explicitly stated.
• Balanced Viewpoint: While offering your perspectives, ensure they complement and do not overshadow the interviewee’s voice. The analysis should enrich the reader’s understanding rather than detract from the original narrative.
• Supporting Research: Use additional research or references to support your analysis. This can lend credibility to your interpretations and provide a more rounded view of the topic.
• Critical Thinking: Apply critical thinking to analyze the interviewee’s responses. Question underlying assumptions, identify biases, and explore the implications of their viewpoints.
• Seamless Transitions: Craft transitions that seamlessly blend narrative and analysis. Use transitional phrases or questions that naturally lead from a story to an analytical point or vice versa.
• Pacing: Balance the pacing between narrative and analysis. Avoid long sections of uninterrupted analysis that might detach the reader from the personal aspect of the essay.
• Coherence: Ensure that the analysis is always relevant to the preceding narrative. Each analytical point should clearly relate to the story or quote that it follows.
• Reflective Conclusion: In the conclusion of each section or the essay as a whole, reflect back on the analysis and narrative, summarizing how they interconnect and what they collectively reveal about the interviewee or the topic.

Blending narrative and analysis effectively requires a thoughtful approach where both elements complement each other, creating a rich, multi-dimensional view of the interview subject. This approach not only makes the essay more engaging but also deepens the reader’s understanding of the topic.

Incorporate Direct Quotes and Paraphrase

In an interview essay, effectively using direct quotes and paraphrasing is key to maintaining the authenticity of the interviewee’s voice while ensuring the essay’s clarity and conciseness. Here’s a more detailed look at how to approach this:

Direct Quotes

• Impactful Statements: Utilize direct quotes for particularly powerful, insightful, or unique statements. These quotes should capture the essence of the interviewee’s perspective or personality.
• Preserving Voice: When using direct quotes, it’s crucial to preserve the interviewee’s original speech patterns and expressions. This helps in maintaining the authenticity of their voice.
• Contextualization: Provide context for each quote to ensure the reader understands its relevance. Briefly introduce the scenario or question that led to the quoted response.
• Emphasis on Key Points: Use direct quotes to emphasize points critical to your essay’s thesis or main argument. These quotes can serve as evidence or examples to support your narrative.

Paraphrasing

• Simplifying Complex Responses: When the interviewee provides complex or lengthy answers, paraphrasing can make these ideas more accessible to the reader. It allows you to condense and clarify the original response.
• Maintaining Original Meaning: While paraphrasing, be careful to accurately convey the interviewee’s intended message. The goal is to simplify the language, not to alter the meaning.
• Integration with Your Analysis: Paraphrased content can be smoothly integrated with your own analysis or commentary, creating a cohesive narrative flow.
• Avoiding Misrepresentation: Regularly compare your paraphrased sentences with the original statements to ensure that you’re not misrepresenting the interviewee’s views.

Attribution

• Crediting the Interviewee: Always attribute both quotes and paraphrased ideas to the interviewee. This can be done in the narrative (e.g., “As Jane Doe noted…”) or through citations, depending on the format of your essay.
• Clear Distinction: Make it clear to the reader what is a direct quote and what is paraphrased material. This distinction is crucial for transparency and credibility.
• Consistency in Attribution: Apply a consistent style for attributing quotes and ideas throughout your essay. This consistency aids in readability and helps maintain the flow of the essay.

Incorporating direct quotes and paraphrasing effectively enhances the authenticity of your interview essay and makes it more engaging and accessible to the reader. This balance between the interviewee’s voice and your narrative is key to creating a compelling and credible essay.

Provide Context and Background Information

In an interview essay, contextualizing the content is crucial for readers to fully grasp the significance of the interviewee’s responses. Detailed background information enriches the narrative, making it more informative and engaging. Here’s an expanded look at how to integrate this context:

Set the Scene

• Introduction of Setting: Begin by describing the setting of the interview, if it’s relevant to the content or mood of the conversation. For example, if the interview was conducted in a significant location, mention it.
• Timeframe: Mention the period during which the interview took place, especially if it’s relevant to the discussion or if the conversation references current events.
• Initial Interaction: Briefly describe the initial interaction with the interviewee to give the reader a sense of the interview’s tone and the relationship between you and the interviewee.

Relevant Details

• Interviewee’s Background: Provide an overview of the interviewee’s professional and personal background, focusing on aspects relevant to the essay’s topic. This might include their career trajectory, significant achievements, or personal experiences that shape their perspective.
• Context for Responses: When the interviewee references specific projects, events, or experiences, offer additional information to help the reader understand the relevance and significance of these references.
• Visual Aids: If applicable, use visual aids like photographs or diagrams to provide a richer background and enhance the reader’s understanding, particularly in digital formats.

Linking to Broader Themes

• Connecting to Larger Issues: Draw connections between the interviewee’s experiences or viewpoints and broader societal, historical, or cultural themes. This helps to situate the interview in a larger context.
• Reflecting Current Events: If the interview touches on current events or trends, provide a brief overview to give readers a clearer understanding of the interviewee’s responses in the current landscape.
• Universal Themes: Highlight any universal themes or experiences discussed in the interview. This can make the essay more relatable and compelling to a broader audience.

By providing rich context and background information, you set the stage for the interviewee’s responses and enrich the reader’s understanding of the overall narrative. This additional information layer helps create a more immersive and informative reading experience.

Writing the essay is a process of weaving together the voices of the interviewer and interviewee to create an engaging and insightful narrative. In this phase, you bring to life the interviewee’s experiences and perspectives contextualized within a well-structured and coherent essay.

Styling and Formatting

In the styling and formatting phase of an interview essay, attention to detail is crucial. This step ensures that the essay reads well and meets the necessary academic or publication standards.

Adhering to Academic or Publication Style Guides

• Choose Appropriate Style Guide: Determine which style guide is relevant for your context (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago).
• Consistency: Apply the chosen style guide consistently throughout the essay.
• Formatting Rules: Pay attention to specific formatting rules such as margins, font size, and headings.

Balancing Narrative Flow with Factual Accuracy

• Narrative Structure: Maintain a compelling narrative flow that engages the reader.
• Factual Integrity: Ensure all factual statements are accurate and verifiable.
• Tone and Voice: Balance the essay’s tone between academic rigor and storytelling.

Citing Sources and Interview Material

• Citations for Interview Material: Follow the specific format for citing interviews as per the chosen style guide.
• Secondary Sources: Properly cite all secondary sources and supplemental materials used for background information or analysis.
• In-Text Citations: Include in-text citations where necessary, particularly when quoting or paraphrasing the interviewee.
• Reference List or Bibliography: Compile a complete list of references or bibliography at the end of the essay.

Proper styling and formatting enhance the essay’s readability and demonstrate professionalism and respect for academic standards. This phase is essential for lending credibility to your work and ensuring it is taken seriously by your intended audience.

Bottom Line

Final thoughts on the value and impact of interview essays.

• Unique Insight: Interview essays provide a unique window into personal experiences and expert perspectives.
• Storytelling Power: They combine the art of storytelling with factual reporting, making them compelling and informative.
• Cultural Relevance: These essays can contribute to cultural and social discourse by highlighting diverse voices.

Encouragement for Continuous Learning and Improvement

• Skill Development: Embrace each interview as an opportunity to refine your interviewing and writing skills.
• Feedback and Reflection: Seek feedback and reflect on your process for continuous improvement.
• Lifelong Learning: View each interview essay as a step in the journey of lifelong learning and professional growth.

By adhering to these guidelines and embracing the process, you can create interview essays that are informative and engaging but also respectful and ethical, contributing valuable insights to your chosen field or audience.

Read for more insights

• “Interviewing as Qualitative Research: A Guide for Researchers in Education and the Social Sciences” by Irving Seidman. This book provides an in-depth exploration of the interviewing process in qualitative research, offering valuable insights for anyone looking to understand or conduct interviews for essays or academic research.
• “The SAGE Handbook of Interview Research: The Complexity of the Craft,” edited by Jaber F. Gubrium, James A. Holstein, Amir B. Marvasti, and Karyn D. McKinney. This handbook is a comprehensive resource that delves into various aspects of interview research, including techniques, challenges, and ethical considerations.
• “Doing Interviews” by Steinar Kvale and Svend Brinkmann. Part of the ‘Qualitative Research Kit,’ this book offers a practical guide to conducting interviews, presenting the theoretical background and practical aspects of interviewing.
• “Qualitative Interviewing: The Art of Hearing Data” by Herbert J. Rubin and Irene S. Rubin. This book emphasizes the art of listening in interviews. It offers practical advice for conducting qualitative interviews, making it a useful resource for anyone interested in using interviews as a data source.
• “Writing Ethnographic Fieldnotes” by Robert M. Emerson, Rachel I. Fretz, and Linda L. Shaw. While primarily focused on ethnographic research, this book provides valuable insights into effectively documenting and writing about interviews and observations, which can be highly relevant for crafting interview essays.

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Learning Materials

How to write an interview essay: complete guide.

Updated: Apr 19, 2024

Ever wondered how to transform a simple conversation into a compelling narrative? Writing an interview essay can seem daunting, especially when you're unsure where to start or how to make it engaging. An interview essay should effectively present the interviewee's thoughts on selected topics, using a structured format that combines direct quotes, paraphrasing, and your own analysis to enrich the content. This guide will walk you through the entire process of creating an interview essay, from structuring and formatting to selecting the right questions and crafting a narrative that resonates with readers.

Start Writing Your Free Essay!

The process of writing an interview essay: an overview.

Writing an interview essay involves more than just transcribing conversations. It requires a thoughtful approach to select, organize, and present the interview content in a way that tells a compelling story. Starting with a clear understanding of the essay's purpose, writers need to decide on the format—narrative, Q&A, or a thematic exploration. This choice will significantly influence the structure and presentation of the interview content, guiding the entire writing process from the questions you ask to the way you interpret the answers.

Preparation is key in crafting an effective interview essay. Before even beginning the interview, it's crucial to research the interviewee and the topic thoroughly to ask insightful questions that elicit meaningful responses. Organizing these findings into a structured outline will help streamline the writing process, ensuring that the essay remains focused and coherent. The outline should include an introduction that sets the stage, a body that delves into the interviewee's perspectives, and a conclusion that ties everything together and reflects on the insights gained.

Outlining Your Interview Essay: A Structured Approach

Creating a structured outline for your interview essay is essential as it acts as your writing roadmap. Start with an introduction that presents your thesis statement and gives a brief overview of the interviewee. The body should be divided into several paragraphs, each focusing on a different theme or topic discussed during the interview. Finally, conclude with a summary that reiterates the main points and reflects on the overall insights. This structured approach ensures that your essay is organized and maintains a logical flow from start to finish.

Formatting Guidelines for an Interview Essay

Adhering to specific formatting guidelines is crucial in crafting a well-organized interview essay. Typically, your essay should start with an introduction that hooks the reader and introduces the interviewee. The body of the essay should follow the outline, using clear headings for each section if necessary, and include direct quotes and paraphrases from the interviewee. In terms of presentation, use a readable font, double-spacing, and include page numbers. Always cite your sources correctly to avoid plagiarism and enhance the credibility of your essay.

Dos and Don'ts in Writing an Interview Essay

When writing an interview essay, there are several best practices to follow and pitfalls to avoid. Do ensure clarity by using simple language and avoiding jargon that might confuse readers. Do maintain the authenticity of the interview by accurately representing the interviewee's responses. Don't manipulate quotes to fit your narrative, as this can mislead readers and take away from the interviewee's intended message.

Additionally, do focus on creating a narrative that engages readers, weaving quotes and insights into a compelling story. Don't overlook the need for thorough editing to polish your essay and enhance readability. Avoid overly long paragraphs that can deter readers, and ensure your paragraphs transition smoothly to keep the reader engaged from start to finish. Following these guidelines will help you craft an insightful and respectful interview essay that is both informative and enjoyable to read.

Crafting an Engaging Introduction for Your Interview Essay

Crafting an engaging introduction is crucial for capturing the reader's interest right from the start of your interview essay. Start with a hook that grabs attention; this could be a startling statistic, a poignant quote from the interviewee, or an intriguing question that sets the stage for the narrative. The goal is to pique the reader's curiosity and draw them into the story you're about to unfold, making them eager to learn more about the interviewee and the insights they have to offer.

Once you've captured the reader's attention, it's important to provide a brief overview of the interviewee and the main themes of the essay. This not only introduces the subject but also sets the tone for the rest of the essay. Include a compelling thesis statement that outlines the central idea or the primary insight the interview will explore. This approach ensures that your introduction serves as a concise roadmap for the readers, guiding them through the insights and narratives that will be developed in the body of the essay.

Concluding Your Interview Essay Effectively

Concluding your interview essay effectively is key to leaving a lasting impression on your reader. Summarize the main points and insights shared by the interviewee, reflecting on how they contribute to the broader topic or issue at hand. It's crucial to restate your thesis in a way that reflects the discussions and revelations from the interview, providing closure and reinforcing the significance of the interviewee's perspectives. Consider ending with a thought-provoking question or statement that encourages readers to think deeply about the subject, thereby extending the impact of the essay beyond its final words.

Enhancing Your Interview Essay with Narrative Style

To elevate your interview essay from a mere transcript to a vivid narrative, it's essential to embrace a narrative style. This approach involves weaving the interviewee's responses into a storyline that resonates with readers. By focusing on the flow of events and the emotional journey of the interviewee, you can create a more immersive experience. This style not only keeps the readers engaged but also allows them to connect deeply with the subject matter, seeing the interviewee not just as a source of information, but as a character in a compelling story.

Utilizing narrative techniques such as dialogues, descriptive details , and personal anecdotes can significantly enhance the readability and impact of your interview essay. These elements help to paint a vivid picture of the interviewee and their experiences, making the story come alive. Moreover, integrating direct quotes strategically throughout the essay adds authenticity and gives a voice to the narrative, allowing readers to experience the interviewee's personality and emotions firsthand.

Choosing the Right Questions for Your Interview

Selecting the right questions for your interview is crucial in crafting a narrative that captures the essence of the interviewee's experiences and perspectives. Focus on open-ended questions that encourage detailed responses, and consider how each question will contribute to the unfolding story. Here are a few tips:

• Ask about specific life events that shaped the interviewee's viewpoint.
• Inquire about challenges and successes to reveal depth and personal growth.
• Tailor questions to evoke emotions and personal reflections, which enrich the narrative.

By carefully choosing questions that align with the narrative style of your essay, you can gather compelling content that engages and resonates with your audience.

Elevate Your Interview Essay with Samwell.ai's Writing Tools

Elevating your interview essay becomes seamless with Samwell 's advanced AI-powered writing tools. Whether you're a student or a professional, Samwell ensures that your essay adheres to the highest standards of academic integrity. The AI assistant helps you integrate direct quotes and paraphrases accurately, ensuring that each citation is formatted correctly according to your specified style, be it APA, MLA, or Chicago. This meticulous attention to detail not only enhances the credibility of your essay but also saves you valuable time.

Moreover, Samwell 's advanced plagiarism checks are integral to maintaining the originality of your work. Here’s how it benefits you:

• Scans your essay against a vast database to detect any potential plagiarism.
• Highlights sections that require rephrasing to ensure uniqueness.
• Provides suggestions for citations to fortify your claims and avoid academic misconduct. This feature of Samwell not only protects your academic reputation but also instills confidence in your writing, allowing you to submit your interview essay with peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you start an interview essay.

Starting an interview essay effectively involves crafting an engaging introduction. Begin with a hook that grabs the reader's attention, such as a startling statistic, a poignant quote, or an intriguing question. Follow this with a brief overview of the interviewee and the main themes of the essay, and include a compelling thesis statement that outlines the central idea or primary insight the interview will explore.

How to start writing an interview?

To start writing an interview, first ensure you have a clear understanding of the essay's purpose and decide on the format—narrative, Q&A, or thematic exploration. Prepare by researching the interviewee and the topic thoroughly to formulate insightful questions. Organize your findings into a structured outline with an introduction, body sections based on themes, and a conclusion. This preparation sets the foundation for writing an engaging and coherent interview essay.

How do you summarize an interview in an essay?

To summarize an interview in an essay, focus on condensing the main points and insights shared by the interviewee. Reflect on how these contribute to the broader topic or issue at hand. Restate your thesis in a way that reflects the discussions and revelations from the interview, providing closure and emphasizing the significance of the interviewee's perspectives. Consider ending with a thought-provoking question or statement to extend the impact of the essay.

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How to Write an Interview Essay: Questions, Topics, Examples & Tips

In the realm of writing, interviews bring a unique touch, a personal narrative that adds depth to your words. Picture this: someone's story unfolding through your pen, their experiences laid out for the world to read. But how do you capture that essence, ask the questions that matter, and turn it into a compelling read? 

Fear not! Our guide breaks the interview essay examples down for you, step by step, making essay writing for interview as simple as sharing a cup of coffee with a friend. So, let's get started on turning conversations into captivating tales that will help you get your first remote job !

What Is an Interview Essay?

The process of interview essay writing is essentially a conversation transformed into written form. It involves engaging with someone, posing thoughtful questions, and then translating their responses into a narrative for others to read. Think of it as capturing the essence of a personal exchange, where the interviewee shares their experiences, insights, or expertise. 

The goal is to convey the individual's unique perspective and story in a way that resonates with readers. It's like being a storyteller with a purpose – to amplify someone else's voice and share their narrative with a broader audience. Interview essays provide a platform for individuals to express their thoughts, share their journeys, and contribute their perspectives to a wider conversation.

How to Write an Interview Essay?

Step 1: Define the Essay's Purpose

Start your journey into crafting a job interview essay by figuring out exactly what you want to achieve. Ask yourself: Why am I conducting this interview, and what story or message do I want to share? It could be about someone's experiences in the professional world, valuable insights into a particular industry, or shedding light on the intricacies of a specific job role. Having a clear purpose will help you stay on track and make sure your essay has a point.

Step 2: Explore the Subject through Research

Before you dive into the interview, take some time to get to know the person you'll be talking to. Look into their background, experiences, and anything else that might be important. This research not only helps you come up with good questions but also shows the person you're interviewing that you care about their story. Knowing more about your subject makes your questions more thoughtful, turning the phone interview into a richer and more interesting conversation.

Interview Essay Topics

Need a dose of inspiration? Our experts have compiled compelling essay topics for interview. Explore and choose one that sparks your curiosity and invites in-depth analysis:

• How do people feel about remote work after experiencing it?
• What's the most memorable volunteer experience for community members?
• How do small business owners handle daily challenges?
• What makes a family game night special for different families?
• How do individuals manage stress in their everyday lives?
• What are the favorite childhood memories of people in your community?
• How do pet owners bond with their furry friends?
• What are some creative ways people stay active without going to the gym?
• How do grandparents share wisdom with younger generations?
• What role do hobbies play in people's lives for relaxation?
• How do individuals practice self-care on a busy schedule?
• What's the favorite local food joint for residents in your area?
• How do students manage their time during exam periods?
• What's the secret behind successful long-term relationships?
• How do individuals find joy in simple, everyday moments?
• How do people discover and choose their favorite books to read?
• What's the go-to comfort food for individuals on a rainy day?
• How do commuters make the most of their time during daily travels?
• What's the most cherished holiday tradition for families in your community?
• How do individuals celebrate personal achievements and milestones?

Step 3: Formulate Your Questions

Now that you've got a grip on your essay's purpose and know your subject, it's time to craft thoughtful questions. Think about what will bring out the most interesting and meaningful responses. Ask open-ended questions that encourage the interviewee to share their experiences, insights, or opinions. This step is like laying the groundwork for a conversation that will unveil the essence of your subject's story.

Interview Essay Questions

• How has the integration of technology impacted your communication within your family?
• Can you share a transformative experience from participating in a unique sports or recreational activity?
• What strategies have you employed to foster a positive work-life balance in your professional journey?
• In your opinion, what elements contribute to creating a successful and harmonious blended family dynamic?
• How do you navigate and manage personal finances to ensure financial stability and security?
• Can you recall a specific instance where a mentor or role model profoundly influenced your life choices?
• What innovative methods have you discovered for staying connected with distant relatives or friends?
• How do you incorporate mindfulness and mental wellness practices into your daily routine?
• In your experience, how do cultural traditions shape and influence family dynamics and relationships?
• Can you share a travel experience that left a lasting impact, broadening your perspective on life?
• What are your strategies for maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle despite a busy schedule?
• How do you approach and overcome creative blocks or challenges in your artistic endeavors?
• Can you recount a significant moment of personal growth or self-discovery that shaped your identity?
• What lessons have you learned from navigating a cross-cultural or interfaith relationship?
• How do you approach building a sense of community and fostering connections within your neighborhood?
• How do you incorporate eco-friendly practices and sustainability into your daily life?
• How much of an impact does social media have on personal relationships and societal dynamics?
• Did you ever face a major decision and the thought process that guided your choice?
• How do you stay informed about current events, and how does this impact your worldview?
• How much are you involved in a hobby or passion that brings you joy and fulfillment? 

Step 4: Reach Out to the Interviewee and Ready Yourself for the Interview

Take the plunge and connect with the person you're interviewing. Reach out in a friendly manner, explaining your purpose and why you value their perspective. Once you've secured the interview, prepare yourself. Familiarize yourself with the questions, make sure your equipment (if any) is ready, and create a comfortable setting for the conversation. Being organized and ready ensures a smooth and effective interview process, allowing the person you're speaking with to open up and share their story effortlessly.

Step 5: Conduct the Interview

Now that you've set the stage, it's time for the main event! As you step into the interview, approach it with a genuine sense of curiosity, as if you're unwrapping a present of stories and insights. Take a moment to breathe and let the conversation unfold naturally. Pose your questions with patience, allowing the interviewee the space to share their thoughts. 

Active listening is key – not just to their words but to the nuances in their tone and the emotions beneath the surface. It's in these unscripted moments that the most captivating and unexpected stories often emerge. Embrace flexibility, as sometimes the richest narratives come when you least anticipate them. Remember, your ultimate aim for successful interview essays is to authentically capture the essence of the person's experiences or insights, so let the first job interview be a genuine and unfiltered exploration.

Step 6: Select an Interview Essay Format

As you wrap up the interview, consider how you want to present its essence. The right format sets the tone and it is your tool to engage the readers effectively in your interview essays. 

You have a variety of styles to choose from: opt for the classic Q&A, where questions and answers flow seamlessly; weave a narrative, transforming responses into a compelling story; or adopt a thematic structure for a logical organization. Each style brings its own flavor to the table. The format you choose becomes the lens through which your readers experience the interview, so select one that not only enhances the narrative but also resonates with your audience. Ultimately, your choice of format shapes how your audience engages with the richness of the conversation.

Step 7: Develop an Interview Essay Outline

Now that you've gathered all the insightful details, it's time to structure your essay. Create an interview essay outline that organizes the key points, highlights significant moments, and establishes a logical flow. Consider the introduction, body, and conclusion, and map out how the interviewee's story will unfold. This roadmap will guide you on how to write an interview essay, ensuring a cohesive and engaging narrative that does justice to the richness of the conversation.

Introduction:

The introduction to an interview essay is where you say hello to your reader and give them a sneak peek into what's coming. Briefly introduce who you interviewed and share a little about why their story is worth hearing. You can start with something interesting to grab attention, like a question or a surprising fact. The main job here is to make your reader curious about what comes next.

The body is where the real action happens. Think of it like the main part of a story. Each paragraph tackles a different aspect of what you learned in the interview. Start with the most important points and follow a logical order. Share the juicy details and interesting moments. Keep things organized, so your reader can easily follow along. It's all about presenting the interviewee's story in a way that's interesting and makes sense.

Conclusion:

The conclusion is your chance to wrap things up. Summarize the key points from the interview and remind your reader why it's important. You can add a personal reflection or suggest what readers might take away from the interviewee's experiences. End on a strong note, leaving a lasting impression. It's like saying goodbye but making sure it's memorable.

Step 8: Proofread Your Work

Before sharing your interview essay writing with the world, take a moment to proofread. Check for grammar and spelling errors, ensure the sentences flow smoothly, and verify that your chosen format enhances the overall readability. This step is your chance to polish the final product and present a well-crafted piece. A carefully proofread essay not only reflects professionalism but also ensures that your audience can fully focus on the captivating story you've worked so diligently to convey.

Step 9: Include Proper Citations

As the finishing touch to your interview essay, don't forget to give credit where it's due. Include proper citations to acknowledge any external sources or references used during your research. Whether it's direct quotes, paraphrased information, or data from other works, citing your sources adds credibility to your essay and shows respect for the original contributors. Follow the citation style specified by your assignment or publication guidelines, ensuring transparency and integrity in your writing. This step ensures that your readers can trace back and explore the sources that contributed to the depth of your interview essay.

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Interview Essay Example

To illustrate the art of turning a conversation into a compelling essay, let's delve into an interview essay sample with Sarah Rodriguez, an avid urban gardener with a green thumb and a passion for sustainable living. Through this example, we'll explore how to capture the essence of someone's experiences and insights, transforming a casual chat into a narrative that resonates:

Sarah Rodriguez's balcony garden in the heart of the city is a testament to the possibilities of urban gardening. As we sat surrounded by thriving plants, she shared her journey into sustainable living and the joys of cultivating a green oasis in a concrete jungle.

Urban gardening might seem like a niche interest, but for Sarah, it's a way of life that has transformed not only her living space but also her perspective on sustainable practices. In this interview, we'll dive into the roots of Sarah's passion, exploring how she turned a small balcony into a flourishing garden and gained insights into sustainable living along the way.

Sarah's journey began with a desire for fresh herbs, a longing that led her to experiment with container gardening. 'It started small, with a few potted herbs like basil and mint,' she recalled. 'But as I learned more about sustainable gardening practices, it evolved into something much more significant.'

Each paragraph in the body delves into a different aspect of Sarah's experience. From the challenges of limited space to the joy of harvesting her own produce, the narrative weaves through her urban gardening adventure. Key moments, such as discovering the benefits of composting or experimenting with rainwater harvesting, add depth to the story.

As we wrap up the interview, Sarah reflects on the impact of urban gardening on her life. 'It's not just about the plants; it's about connecting with nature in the midst of a bustling city,' she shares. Through Sarah's journey, we glimpse the potential of turning a small balcony into a sustainable haven. This interview essay not only captures the practical aspects of urban gardening but also highlights the personal growth and connection to the environment that can stem from such a simple yet impactful endeavor.

Bringing It All Together

We hope you picked up some handy tips in this guide to shine in your journalism class. But hey, if you crave more guidance on how to prepare for a job interview essay, our expert writers are all ears and ready to share more insights! Feel free to reach out for extra help and nail that assignment with confidence.

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How to Write an Interview Essay: Complete Guide

College and high school teachers often assign interview papers to test their learners’ planning, paraphrasing, and critical thinking skills. So, besides drafting a well-substantiated and information-packed piece, students must also organize and conduct an interviewing process.

Hence, this assignment is far from straightforward. Quite the contrary, it requires substantial pre-work before the actual meeting. Moreover, the task further complicates if you include several subjects or elaborate on a compelling theme.

What if you can’t meet an ideal candidate to elaborate on your topic? How to pose questions that reveal valuable information and present your findings on paper? How to write an interview essay introduction with attention-grabbing ideas that bring up current dilemmas or resolve an issue? There are so many trilemmas spinning around your head.

Fortunately, there’s no need to feel intimated or discouraged. This article will help you grasp the basics of an interview paper and how to write an outstanding piece. It will also discuss the steps involved in the writing process and give a few helpful tips that ensure your final product passes with flying colors.

What Is an Interview Essay?

An interview paper is an academic written piece that presents the insight the interviewer gained while interviewing one or several people. It aims to expose different perspectives on a particular topic once the writer gathers relevant data through research. Typically, the essence of the paper will rest upon your findings from the interviews.

The presented viewpoints will depend on the respondent. So, for example, if your paper interview focuses on social media, you might consider talking to an influencer. Conversely, if you’re elaborating on a burning social issue, you may want to speak to a local authority. Or set up a meeting with a scientist if you’re exploring natural sciences.

The interview paper must help the reader understand a concept backed by relevant statements. Unlike definition essay writing , where you paraphrase and cite trusted sources like scholarly books, the interview paper will stem from authoritative individuals in the respective field.

Finally, you can reap a lot of benefits from drafting interview essays. More specifically, those interested in becoming broadcast journalists, newspaper reporters, or editors will learn to pose thought-provoking questions. Similarly, HR managers will polish their screening ability and hire excellent candidates. Even prospective detectives and inspectors can gain from writing an interview essay. They will formulate a variety of engaging questions to get honest and accurate answers.

Outline and Typical Structure of an Interview Paper

Most essays follow the template of a basic 5-paragraph paper. Yet, the length can vary according to your subject and data availability. A standard interview essay from a custom writing service can range from 2,000 to 5,000 words or up to ten pages. Individual works are usually shorter.

The interview essay format will have an introduction, body segments (perspectives grouped under different subheadings), and a summary. Here’s an overview of what to put in each part.

Introduction . The writer needs to create an atmosphere of uncertainty and urgency to stimulate the audience to keep reading. It should also provide background information about the theme and the interviewee. Furthermore, the initial part can list statistics or what society thinks about the respective topic. Finally, your intro must contain a thesis that transitions into the main section.

Body . This part will present the pillars on which you conceptualized your research. If you get stuck while drafting the body, you might hire an online service to write an essay for you and incorporate the gathered data. They will isolate the main points and help you frame the perfect timeline of events.

Moreover, the body should reflect important facts, life periods, and considerations of your interviewees. For instance, you might split your paper into infancy, adolescence, university, marriage, and golden years. Or you might divide your segments according to different discussion questions.

Conclusion . Use the ending part to summarize the interviewee’s thoughts and your insights into the matter. You might also compare the available data to the facts collected during the meeting and verify their validity. The bottom line must leave a lasting impression on your audience.

Steps for Writing a Successful Interview

Below is a detailed description of the paper composition journey. Consider each step carefully and be consistent in your approach.

Define the Paper’s Objective

Writing an interview paper urges you to establish the overall purpose. You will have to specify the message you plan to deliver. For example, if you want to verify a public opinion, you’ll have to question several subjects. Alternatively, proving a natural phenomenon will require a conversation with an expert in the field.

Explore the Subject

Find and prepare printed and virtual materials related to your research. Previous interviews and works by the interviewee are also vital. Unlike rebuttal essays , your primary goal is to gather details supporting your claims. Therefore, brainstorm any note you found based on your predefined criteria.

Pick an Interview Format

Your sample form will depend on the specific theme. Most students decide to buy a literature essay online due to their lack of formatting skills. Here are the various formats you can choose when presenting your findings.

This format implies using direct or indirect speech to analyze the storyline. Consider retelling the considerations of the interviewee and citing the original wording. The narrative format is also advisable if you talk to a few interviewees. The structure should contain an intro, a body (each paragraph can describe a particular idea of a single person), and a summary.

Question-and-answer essays are ideal when interviewing one person. Most magazines and news reports prefer this type because it is the simplest. Your interview paper will have an intro, different parts for each question and answer, an analysis with your perspective, and a summary.

Informative

Also known as conversational or personal, these papers are informal and take first or second-person narration flow. However, writing in a dialogue form might be confusing and perplexing for an untrained eye.

Formulate the Questions

Make a thorough list of all the aspects you want to discuss and cover in the interview paper. Ask close-ended (yes/no) and open-ended questions that require in-depth responses. If you struggle with your questionnaire, consider the following suggestions:

• Share your core values
• What would you change in the world if you had a superpower for a day?
• How did your childhood impact your personality?
• What is the recipe for success?
• What is the best aspect of your job?
• How do you overcome your deepest fears?
• Define happiness with examples
• What object do you hold most dear and why?
• What is the most significant challenge in our society?
• How do you imagine the world’s future?

Get in Touch with the Respondent

Make an effort to contact your interviewee/s and be professional when arranging the meeting. You might need to use several communication channels to reach your target person. Focus on scheduling a time that works for everyone involved in the project.

Facilitate the Interview

Choose a peaceful and quiet place without any distractions. Always arrive on time for the meeting. Alternatively, consider setting it up in an online format, if finding a physical location isn’t viable. Most importantly, allow the speakers enough time to share their thoughts and maintain an impartial attitude to avoid miscommunication.

Interview Essay Writing Tips

Here’s some additional advice for writers taking the first steps toward interview writing.

Stick to Your Teacher’s Instructions

Your professor will probably mention the paper structure. For instance, if you receive a classification essay writing guidelines , don’t experiment with other formats. Moreover, rehearse the face-to-face meeting with a family member to avoid possible deadens. Here, you might come up with a follow-up question that clarifies some vague points.

Quote and Paraphrase Your Sources

Organize all the details on the background, education, and achievements before interviewing itself. When referring to the topics discussed, cite them properly and give credit. Also, explain the protocol to the respondent and the purpose of the research.

Consider Recording the Interview

The longer the meeting, the more details you’ll forget once you finish it. Avoid over-relying on your memory, and bring a recorder. Taking notes is also essential. However, don’t record unless the respondent gives prior approval.

Mind These Formatting Rules

Use a font size of 12 in Times New Roman with double spacing. Don’t forget to write a title page, too. When including citations longer than 40 words, use block quotes.

Edit and Proofread

Don’t expect the first draft to be the best. Reduce grammar mistakes and typos by polishing your initial wording. The final version must be logical, easy to read, and plagiarism-free.

Bottom Line

As intimidating as the interview paper might seem at the onset, these guidelines will help you stay focused and organized. Above all, pick an important topic with questions that affect ordinary people. This way, you can set up and develop the interviews more quickly. Undoubtedly, an A+ grade takes dedication and perseverance to research and write your paper.

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A Guide to Writing an Essay for Job Interviews

Writing is a doorway into your mental perspective. Your written work will convey to the reader how you reason, how you debate, and how you support your point of view. This is why essays are integral parts of some job selection processes.

The subjects and topics of these essays mostly revolve around specific current affairs or political events. The more you understand the topic and have information about the event, the better your essay becomes.

Things to remember about Essay Writing

• The essay must be organized and presented so that interviewer can follow it easily. It also needs to be neat and free of any ambiguity. 
• The essay is not only a quiz on your understanding of specific facts. Your imagination, ingenuity, and ability to come up with original ideas will be put to the test. Hence, it must be written in an engaging, readable style. However, it must, most importantly, include your viewpoints on the matter at hand.
• Language proficiency does not develop immediately. It requires perseverance and effort. Your motivation to learn a language will impact how well you can communicate in it.
• In the wrong belief that we can produce a quality piece of work in the test room, many of us make the mistake of accumulating information and facts on the likely topics at the eleventh hour of preparation.
• What we must realize is that organizing information using the proper terminology will be a laborious task, especially under the strain of a deadline
• Improve your abilities by being enthusiastic about reading, taking an interest in expanding your knowledge base, and learning new words.
• The essay as a whole needs to flow naturally from one paragraph to the next so that the interviewer can sense the coherence, orderly flow, and arrangement of your ideas. Transitional words and phrases can be used to tie the paragraphs together.

Suggestions for Writing Effectively

Now let’s discuss some general ideas and tips for writing essays.

• Maintain proper structure: Start the essay with an introduction (or a problem), and then go on to give further information about the problem. The essay body should be between 86 and 90 percent in length, the introduction should be between 5 and 7 percent, and the conclusion should be between 5 and 7 percent.
• Don’t lose track of the subject: Remember the essay prompt. Remain focused on the topic. do not just cite examples or quotations and discuss side-events. Stay rooted in the problem or event you are discussing and then present your take on that very event.
• Practice is the key: Preparation is required before the examination phase to develop the ability to produce a decent essay. Writing is the key to a successful essay because it serves as the primary means of transferring thoughts from your head to paper. So don’t just read, start practicing writing essays before you write them for the real interview.
• Draw the readers’ attention: Your introduction’s opening line should spark the reader’s interest and stimulate their curiosity. When discussing a current affair or a political issue, it might be an intriguing question, a stunning reality, or a statement emphasizing the significance of the topic.
• Explain the background of your subject: The next step is to provide the context of the particular issue of current affairs or politics, so that the interviewer may grasp your argument. This may entail offering background information, providing an overview of the significance of discussions on the subject, and defining complex words. Don’t go into too much depth in the opening; you can go into more detail in your essay’s body.
• Be resourceful with your knowledge : In order to write a good article about current topics, you must understand that knowledge comes first. You need to know what is going on around you. Be precise when presenting your current affairs knowledge. Be precise in how you think about these incidents.

Mistakes to avoid in the Essays

You’ve probably got a clear idea about how to write an essay this far. That’s great! But you also need to be aware of the errors to keep away from. Your essays will be of much better quality if you can figure out how to avoid the following errors.

• Synthesis Writing, Not Analytical Essay Writing: If you’re writing about a current event, providing some background information can help to frame the subject. However, the majority of your essay should focus on your analysis. Don’t just summarise what happened.
• Too many arguments: The interviewer always expects you to provide solid justification for your thesis. Some people take this literally, and as a result, they write as many facts, figures, and quotations as they can. To make the thesis statement more credible, avoid adding unnecessary complexity to the article by making unrelated citings. Stick to the topic and state your case logically without factitively.
• Don’t sound contradictory: Be clear from the very first about your take on the event you are discussing. You may discuss different and relevant aspects of the issue you are discussing but don’t sound contradictory in the process. Don’t hold extremist opinions. Your essay should demonstrate how well-balanced, holistic, and analytical you are.

Useful Resources to learn about Current Events

Now, if you are wondering where and how to find the current events or relevant political issues that may be the potential topics of your essay, here are some cues for you.

• Consistency is necessary for the GA segment; daily newspaper reading is required.
• Keep concise records of significant news. The notes should be revised on a regular basis.
• Another way to stay up to date on current events is to subscribe to news networks or current affairs YouTube channels.
• You can read monthly magazines that are offered by different institutions if you don’t have time to read everyday current affairs. These periodicals can be found online and in PDF format.

So, these are everything you need to know about writing an essay on current and political issues; following the DOs and DONTs mentioned here you can create an excellent piece. But always keep in mind that before writing comes knowledge. There is no such thing as perfect writing but the more you are aware of your surroundings the easier it is for you to pen it down. Hence, keep reading, and stay updated to excel in your essay on such topics.  

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Essay Examples

Best Interview Essay Examples: A Complete Guide

• By Sara Luis

Dive into a captivating compilation of interview essays that shine a light on the real, unfiltered stories of a myriad of individuals. This collection spans various backgrounds and experiences, offering a mosaic of human narratives that resonate on a personal level. Through these interviews, readers will witness the triumphs, challenges, and everyday moments that define the lives of those interviewed. It’s more than just words on paper; it’s an exploration of the human spirit and the shared threads that weave through us all. From the achievements of professionals to the resilience of ordinary people, each interview is a unique window into the depth and richness of the human experience. Join us on this journey of discovery, where authenticity and connection are at the heart of every conversation.

What is an Interview Essay?

An interview essay is a distinctive form of literary composition that serves as a portal into the lives, experiences, and perspectives of individuals. In essence, it transforms the spoken word into written narratives, capturing the essence of conversations and weaving them into engaging stories. This exploration dives into the fundamental elements, purpose, and nuances of interview essays, shedding light on their role as bridges between the spoken and written realms.

Understanding the Essence of Interview Essays

1. definition and purpose.

At its core, an interview essay is a dynamic interplay between the interviewer and interviewee, transcending a mere exchange of information. It endeavors to encapsulate the richness of human experiences, allowing readers to step into the shoes of the interviewee. The purpose is not only to inform but to engage, enlighten, and evoke a connection between the audience and the subject.

2. Conversational Narrative

Unlike conventional essays, interview essays adopt a conversational tone. They replicate the ebb and flow of spoken language, fostering an intimate connection between the reader and the interviewee. This conversational narrative serves as a vehicle for authentic expression, providing readers with a front-row seat to the unique cadence and nuances of the interviewee’s voice.

Crafting the Interview Essay

1. pre-interview preparation.

Researching the Interviewee

Before the interview, thorough research on the interviewee is imperative. This goes beyond surface-level information, delving into the individual’s background, achievements, and personal and professional milestones. This preparation not only facilitates informed questions but also demonstrates a genuine interest in the interviewee’s story.

Developing Thoughtful Questions

Crafting thoughtful and open-ended questions is an art. These questions serve as the scaffolding for the interview, guiding the conversation toward meaningful insights. Striking a balance between specificity and openness allows the interview to unfold naturally, revealing layers of the interviewee’s experiences.

Establishing Rapport

Building a connection with the interviewee is paramount. Creating a comfortable and open environment encourages the interviewee to share more authentically. This rapport-building phase is crucial for capturing the unfiltered essence of the individual’s narrative.

2. Conducting the Interview

Active listening.

During the interview, the skill of active listening takes center stage. It involves not only hearing the words spoken but also discerning the emotions, nuances, and unspoken elements embedded in the conversation. Active listening is the gateway to capturing the depth and authenticity of the interviewee’s story.

Flexibility and Adaptability

While a set of prepared questions is essential, flexibility is equally crucial. Allowing the conversation to take unexpected turns often leads to discovering hidden facets of the interviewee’s narrative. Adaptability ensures that the interview remains dynamic and responsive to the organic flow of dialogue.

Encouraging Detailed Responses

Encouraging the interviewee to provide detailed and illustrative responses adds layers to the narrative. Instead of simply extracting information, the interviewer aims to evoke stories, anecdotes, and personal reflections that form the building blocks of a compelling interview essay.

Post-Interview Reflection

1. transcribing and organizing.

After the interview concludes, the process of transcribing notes or recordings begins. This raw material serves as the foundation for the subsequent organization of the essay. Thematic grouping and structuring the content pave the way for a coherent and impactful narrative.

2. Identifying Compelling Quotes

Within the transcribed material, identifying compelling quotes is a crucial step. These quotes, extracted directly from the interviewee’s words, act as powerful and authentic anchors within the essay. They serve to encapsulate the interviewee’s voice and perspectives, offering readers direct access to the richness of the conversation.

Structuring the Interview Essay

1. engaging introduction.

The introduction serves as the gateway to the interviewee’s world. An engaging introduction not only introduces the individual but also sets the tone for the entire essay. It may incorporate a relevant quote, anecdote, or intriguing detail that piques the reader’s interest.

2. Clear Thesis Statement

A well-defined thesis statement early in the essay provides readers with a roadmap. This statement encapsulates the overarching theme or message that the interviewee’s story aims to convey. Clarity in the thesis statement ensures that the essay maintains focus and coherence.

3. Organized Body Paragraphs

The body of the essay unfolds in a structured manner, with each paragraph dedicated to a specific theme or topic. These thematic sections are derived from the post-interview reflection and transcribing process. Each paragraph explores a facet of the interviewee’s narrative, supported by quotes and illustrative details.

4. Seamless Transitions

Transitions between paragraphs and sections are carefully crafted to maintain the fluidity of the narrative. Smooth transitions guide the reader through the various dimensions of the interview, creating a cohesive and engaging reading experience.

5. Thoughtful Conclusion

The conclusion serves as the culmination of the interview essay. It summarizes the main insights, reflections, or lessons gleaned from the interview. A thoughtful conclusion may also provide a bridge to broader implications or encourage readers to contemplate the significance of the interviewee’s perspectives.

Writing Style and Tone

1. maintaining authenticity.

While editing is an essential part of the writing process, it is crucial to retain the authenticity of the interviewee’s voice. The goal is not to overly polish the language but to ensure clarity while preserving the genuine flavor of the conversation.

2. Varied Sentence Structure

A varied sentence structure contributes to the dynamic flow of the essay. Mixing short, impactful sentences with longer, descriptive ones creates a rhythm that enhances reader engagement. This diversity in sentence structure adds a layer of sophistication to the writing style.

3. Descriptive Language

Descriptive language plays a pivotal role in painting a vivid picture of the interviewee and their experiences. It is through descriptive language that the essay immerses readers in the interviewee’s world, allowing them to visualize and connect with the narrative on a deeper level.

Revision and Editing

1. peer review.

Seeking feedback from peers or mentors is a valuable step in the revision process. External perspectives offer insights into areas that may need clarification, expansion, or refinement. Peer review contributes to the overall polish and effectiveness of the interview essay.

2. Trim Excesses

During the editing phase, attention to conciseness is crucial. Trimming any redundancies or excesses while retaining the substance of the narrative results in a lean and focused essay. A streamlined composition ensures that the reader’s attention is maintained throughout.

3. Proofreading Carefully

Thorough proofreading for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors is the final step before presenting the interview essay to its audience. Attention to detail in this phase ensures that the writing is polished and professional, reinforcing the credibility of the narrative.

The art of crafting an interview essay involves a meticulous interplay of preparation, engagement, organization, and refinement. The interview essay, as a genre, holds the power to transcend the limitations of traditional storytelling, offering readers an intimate connection with the human experience. Through careful listening, thoughtful questioning, and skillful presentation, the interviewer becomes a conduit for the interviewee’s story to unfold. Each essay becomes a testament to the richness of individual narratives, inviting readers to empathize, learn, and discover the profound beauty in the tapestry of shared human experiences.

Three Free Interview Essay Examples for Guidance

1. example: the entrepreneurial journey.

This interview essay explores the entrepreneurial journey of Sarah Thompson, a successful businesswoman who founded a tech startup. The introduction sets the stage by highlighting the significance of entrepreneurship in the modern business landscape.

• Background and Motivation:  The first section delves into Sarah’s background, detailing her early experiences and the factors that motivated her to become an entrepreneur. Personal anecdotes and challenges encountered on the path to entrepreneurship add depth to the narrative.
• Start-up Creation:  This part focuses on the inception of Sarah’s tech startup. It covers the initial idea, the process of team formation, and the challenges faced during the startup’s early days. Quotes from Sarah provide insights into decision-making and risk-taking.
• Scaling and Success:  The third section discusses the strategies employed to scale the startup and achieve success. Sarah’s leadership style, innovative approaches, and lessons learned from setbacks are explored. The narrative includes specific examples of pivotal moments in the company’s growth.

The conclusion summarizes key takeaways from the interview, emphasizing the importance of resilience, creativity, and strategic thinking in the entrepreneurial journey. It leaves the reader inspired by Sarah’s story and equipped with insights into the world of startups.

2. Example: Perspectives on Environmental Conservation

Introduction.

This interview essay captures the perspectives of Dr. Emily Rodriguez, an environmental scientist, on the challenges and opportunities in the field of environmental conservation. The introduction establishes the global significance of environmental issues and the importance of individual contributions.

• Educational Background and Passion:  Dr. Rodriguez’s educational journey and the development of her passion for environmental conservation are explored. The interview highlights key experiences that shaped her commitment to addressing environmental challenges.
• Research and Advocacy Work:  The body of the essay delves into Dr. Rodriguez’s research projects and advocacy work. Specific examples of impactful initiatives, collaborations, and community engagement provide a comprehensive view of her contributions to environmental conservation.
• Challenges and Hopes for the Future:  The essay concludes with an examination of the challenges faced by environmental scientists and Dr. Rodriguez’s hopes for the future. It addresses the importance of public awareness, policy changes, and global cooperation in achieving sustainable environmental practices.

The conclusion synthesizes the interview content, emphasizing the urgency of environmental conservation and the role that individuals, communities, and policymakers can play. It leaves the reader with a sense of responsibility and a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in this critical field.

3. Example: A Journey in Social Activism

This interview essay centers on the experiences of Mark Johnson, a social activist with a long history of advocating for human rights. The introduction provides context on the role of social activism in shaping societal change.

• Early Activism and Influences:  The first section explores Mark’s early experiences with social activism and the influential figures who inspired him. Anecdotes and pivotal moments in his journey shed light on the evolution of his passion for social justice.
• Campaigns and Impact:  The essay delves into the various campaigns and initiatives led by Mark Johnson. It discusses specific projects, collaborations, and the impact of his work on local communities. Quotes from Mark provide insights into the challenges faced and the rewards of activism.
• Reflections and Advice:  The final section reflects on Mark’s personal growth, lessons learned, and advice for aspiring activists. It explores the emotional aspects of activism and the resilience required to navigate the complexities of social change.

The conclusion synthesizes Mark’s narrative, highlighting the transformative power of social activism. It encourages readers to reflect on their own capacity to contribute to positive societal changes and emphasizes the ongoing importance of activism in fostering a more just and equitable world.

Perfect Interview Essay: A Comprehensive Guide

An interview essay is a unique form of writing that demands a delicate blend of journalistic prowess, storytelling finesse, and analytical insight. To compose a perfect interview essay, one must adeptly navigate the intricacies of the interview process, distill meaningful insights, and present them in a compelling narrative. This guide unfolds the key tips to help you elevate your interview essay to perfection.

Understanding the Purpose

Clarify your objectives.

Before embarking on the interview process, clearly define the purpose of your essay. Whether it’s shedding light on a particular experience, capturing the essence of a person’s journey, or exploring diverse perspectives on a topic, a well-defined objective lays the foundation for a focused and impactful essay.

Identify Your Audience

Consider your target audience. Tailoring your approach to match the interests, knowledge level, and expectations of your readers enhances the relevance and resonance of your interview essay.

Pre-Interview Preparation

Thorough research.

Prior to the interview, conduct comprehensive research on your subject. Understand their background, achievements, and any relevant contextual information. This not only demonstrates your commitment but also enables you to ask informed and insightful questions during the interview.

Develop Thoughtful Questions

Craft a list of questions that go beyond the surface. Seek to elicit detailed and reflective responses from your interviewee. Avoid generic queries and strive for questions that prompt storytelling, providing rich material for your essay.

Establish Rapport

Building a rapport with your interviewee is crucial. Create a comfortable environment that encourages openness. A relaxed and friendly atmosphere fosters genuine conversation and allows your subject to share more authentic and candid insights.

Conducting the Interview

During the interview, practice active listening. Pay attention not only to the verbal content but also to the nuances of tone, emotion, and body language. This enables you to capture the full spectrum of your interviewee’s experience.

While having a set of well-prepared questions is essential, be adaptable. Allow the conversation to take natural turns, and be prepared to follow unexpected but interesting threads. This flexibility can lead to discovering unexpected gems that enrich your essay.

Encourage Detailed Responses

Encourage your interviewee to provide detailed and illustrative responses. Instead of yes/no questions, frame inquiries in a way that invites storytelling. Prompt your subject to share anecdotes, experiences, and personal reflections.

Transcribe and Organize

After the interview, promptly transcribe your notes or recordings. Organize the material into key themes or sections. This step lays the groundwork for a structured and coherent essay.

Identify Compelling Quotes

Highlight quotes that encapsulate the essence of your interviewee’s perspective. These quotes can serve as powerful anchors within your essay, providing readers with direct insights into the interviewee’s thoughts and experiences.

Structuring Your Essay

Engaging introduction.

Craft an engaging introduction that captures the reader’s attention. Introduce your subject and provide context for the interview. Consider incorporating a compelling anecdote or quote to set the tone.

Clear Thesis Statement

Present a clear and concise thesis statement early in your essay. This statement should encapsulate the main theme or message that you aim to convey through your interviewee’s perspective.

Organized Body Paragraphs

Structure your body paragraphs around key themes or topics that emerged during the interview. Each paragraph should focus on a specific aspect, supported by relevant quotes, anecdotes, or data.

Seamless Transitions

Ensure smooth transitions between paragraphs and sections. Connect ideas logically, guiding the reader through a cohesive narrative. This fluidity enhances the readability and coherence of your essay.

Thoughtful Conclusion

Craft a conclusion that summarizes the main insights from the interview. Reflect on the significance of the shared perspectives and perhaps suggest broader implications or avenues for further exploration.

Maintain Authenticity

Retain the authenticity of your interviewee’s voice. While it’s essential to edit for clarity and coherence, avoid over-polishing the language to the extent that it loses the genuine flavor of the conversation.

Varied Sentence Structure

Employ a variety of sentence structures to maintain reader engagement. Mix short, punchy sentences with longer, more descriptive ones to create a dynamic and engaging writing style.

Descriptive Language

Utilize descriptive language to paint a vivid picture of the interviewee and their experiences. Capture the emotions, atmosphere, and nuances of the conversation to immerse your readers in the narrative.

Peer Review

Seek feedback from peers or mentors. A fresh set of eyes can provide valuable insights into areas that may need clarification, expansion, or refinement.

Trim Excesses

During the editing process, be mindful of conciseness. Trim any excesses or redundancies while retaining the substance of your narrative. A lean and focused essay is more likely to captivate your audience.

Proofread Carefully

Thoroughly proofread your essay for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors. Attention to detail in this phase ensures that your writing is polished and professional.

In the tapestry of crafting the perfect interview essay, each thread—preparation, engagement, organization, and style—plays a crucial role. As you embark on the journey of composing an interview essay, remember that it is not merely a documentation of words spoken but a nuanced exploration of human experiences and perspectives. By adhering to these tips, you can create an interview essay that resonates, informs, and leaves a lasting impression on your readers.

In conclusion, interviews has provided a rich and insightful exploration into the subject matter, shedding light on perspectives that may have otherwise remained unexplored. The engaging dialogue and firsthand accounts have not only deepened our understanding of the topic but also underscored the importance of diverse voices in shaping our collective knowledge. As we reflect on the narratives shared during this interview, it becomes evident that the exchange of ideas and experiences is a powerful catalyst for fostering empathy, understanding, and growth. This interview serves as a testament to the value of open conversation and the profound impact it can have on broadening our perspectives. In a world that thrives on connection and shared understanding, these conversations are integral to building bridges and creating a more inclusive and informed society.

Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)

EssayGoat curates interview essay examples based on factors such as compelling storytelling, insightful questions, meaningful insights from interviewees, and the overall impact of the narrative. Each example showcased meets high standards of content and presentation.

Absolutely. EssayGoat's page features a diverse range of interview essay examples, covering subjects from personal stories of triumph to professional journeys, societal perspectives, and more. You'll find examples that resonate with various interests and provide inspiration for your own writing.

The interview essay examples on EssayGoat's page not only showcase effective interviewing techniques and storytelling but also offer insights into structuring and presenting compelling narratives. Aspiring writers can analyze these examples to enhance their own interview and writing skills, gaining valuable tips on crafting engaging and impactful essays.

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All You Need to Know About Interview Essay Writing

Purpose of Writing an Interview Essay

The writing process is not always smooth sailing. When it comes to the construction of interview papers, you are free to ask about myriads of issues of your interests and get a broad insight from the interview subject. Once you figure out the main thesis statement for your interview essay, you must collect relatable data in question-and-answer format. The gathered information is almost always subjective since the authoritative individuals and qualified experts are your main data providers. Interview essays are constructed based on people's biased opinions rather than books, historical records, and other sources.

Are you looking for answers on how to write an outline for interview essay? We are here to provide you with useful tips on how to write interview APA format essay. 

You might as well find this article helpful since we have prepared essay writing in interview sample at the end of it.

Format for Writing an Interview Essay

Are you on the verge of choosing an appropriate format to write an interview essay? One of the essential steps includes identifying the type of interview paper you are willing to write. The interview essay format is determined based on the style of your paper. There are three basic types of interview papers:

• Narrative Essay Interview - Through this type of paper, you are assigned to research a specific topic based on the conducted interview. The main thing is to accumulate all the information that the interviewed person has provided in a neat and organized manner in the form of a narrative. The story might be written from your perspective or that of the interviewee. In that case, you are free to write in the first and second person.
• Personal Interview - Such type of paper demands you to prepare a list of witty interview questions to ask a specific person who holds a certain type of authority based on their professional occupation. The final product turns out to be an interview in essay format.
• Question-answer Interview - Such interview questions are often asked to job seekers. This is your chance to glance through the common interview questions that the hiring managers will ask you to get a glimpse of your personality and career goals. The questions and answers can be combined in an interview paper. For more information, check out internship interview questions and answers here.

How to Write an Outline for Interview Essay

After you have chosen key points for your interview paper and adjusted its format accordingly, you might wonder, 'should I write an outline for an interview essay ?'. The answer is clear and direct - 'Yes, definitely!'

Good writers always prepare an outline in advance, which is a great tip to lift the burden of the time-consuming paper writing process. The basic structure of interview essay outline includes three major parts:

• Introduction - As you state your paper's thesis statement, you can start writing by introducing the person or the people you interviewed.
• Body Paragraphs - The following paragraphs should contain the subjective points of view that your interviewees provided concerning your major thesis statement.
• Conclusion - In the concluding paragraph of the essay, restate the paper's main goal and summarize the most important points you have made so far.

Writing an Interview Essay Introduction

Once you wrap up the interview essay, outline you are ready to start the writing process. Writing a catchy lead and grabbing a reader's attention right away is not a simple task. However, there are some key elements that make up the best of the introduction part of your interview essay. The primary sentence should briefly contain the main objective behind the chosen topic of the paper. The following sentences should report the importance of your essay topic to your target audience. Finally, you can proceed with the thesis statement, which indicates the basic value of your paper. In other words, try to answer the question of what benefits the reader gets from familiarizing themself with your interview paper.

Do not hesitate to ask us to write an essay for me whether you are assigned to construct an interview essay on writing or any other given subject.

Writing an Interview Essay Body Paragraphs

The body paragraphs hold the majority of the essay. Provided paragraphs support the central statement with relatable facts, details, and key points as the answers that an interviewer asks.

Some of the interviewers prefer to use a recording device, while others opt for notes to contain the important data in its entirety. They choose to include parts of the narrative later in the body paragraphs of the essay as they gather the most important and thematic points made throughout the interview process. You might as well include direct quotes or in-text citations as the sources of provided answers. However, always keep in mind to ask for written permission if you plan to paraphrase or directly copy their ideas word by word according to the issue of your interest.

Writing an interview essay can be hard, so if you are looking for further tips on how to write an essay , we can provide you with an interview essay outline example as well as the complete paper itself.

Writing an Interview Essay Conclusion

The classic format for writing an interview essay includes jotting down the main objectives made throughout the paper in a final paragraph, otherwise known as the conclusion. The last paragraph is not any less important compared to the opening one. That is why you should try and restate the crucial points that interviewees have made while answering questions provided by you. That way, you will sound even more persuasive as you provide evident arguments supported by powerful public figures regarded as influential in society.

You are welcome to conclude the essay with a respectful thank you note as well. Express sincere gratification to the reader for taking the time to read your essay and focus on your contribution to them with the source of information contained in the written interview paper.

If you don’t have distinguished skills for writing an outline for college interview essay, our experts have your back! Contact us to write papers for money and enjoy a perfectly-crafted assignment.

Essay Writing Topics in Interview

Looking for inspiration? Researching an interesting topic for the essay can be exhausting sometimes. But we are here to give you a helping hand through tough times. Our experts have gathered some of the most compelling essay writing topics in interview. You are free to take a look at them and choose one that satisfies your curiosity and challenges you to be analyzed in depth.

• Does body language describe our mental state?
• How important is eye contact for establishing genuine connections?
• Are educated and qualified people obliged to give more to others?
• Which job position is the most attractive in the 21st century?
• Do career services help people get to their target job market?
• Does conflict resolution hold an important place in the contemporary world?
• What is love, and where do you feel it or experience it most often?
• How do our family heritage and traditions influence our personalities?
• How many hours of sleep are needed at different stages of life?
• What kind of skills is essential to possess in order to become a good leader?
• Should the tax system be allocated to the rich and poor accordingly?
• Is the two-party system the guarantee of American democracy in the US?
• Should combatting racism be an individual responsibility?
• Should the American people restrict the amount of money spent on the electoral college?
• How do relationships and friendships shape our lives?
• Do your dreams and nightmares reflect real-life events?
• How do you keep yourself from getting sick?
• Does technology make your daily life easier?
• Do you agree or disagree with the idea that opposites attract?
• What does it mean to be a religious and faithful person to you?

We hope those mentioned above, as well as other essay writing topics for interview in google, will fuel your curiosity.

Meanwhile, you can always pay for papers . Our experts are capable of writing an essay for a job interview based on your individual demands that will get you closer to your dream position.

Interview Essay Writing Examples

Here is one of the interview essay writing examples to check out. We hope that the provided example will give you some kind of perspective:

'A LEADER IS ONE WHO KNOWS THE WAY, GOES THE WAY, AND SHOWS THE WAY'

According to the popular idea, leaders are born rather than made. Contrary to this belief, many real-life examples prove that people can grow into a leader type as they grow older if they want to. Any man can be a leader, but it is not an easy thing to do. You need to know yourself to set an example for others, inspire them, and give them a sense of trust to follow your steps. People are inclined toward those who know where they are going, have their own vision, and are educated enough to support their decisions with rational arguments. These traits give leaders the power to be persuasive. They have their goals set and are not afraid to firmly face any challenges that life might throw their way.

To support this statement, we have interviewed a Pakistani female education activist, Malala Yousafzai, who also carries the honor of being the 2014 Nobel Peace Prize laureate. She is a pure example of how one can rise from any kind of social and domestic circumstances if one has a vision and works hard enough to achieve their goals. She realized the value of education from a very young age. The latter was often inaccessible for girls of her nation due to authoritative powers in the head of the government, under which education was banned for almost all the females in the Northern Pakistani region. Malala persistently fought for her truth and raised awareness about the value that educating girls and boys could hold. She began writing articles and her personal insights anonymously to describe the intolerable circumstances that females had to face under the group of dictators, highlighting the purpose of education and its unavailability for girls of Pakistan.

Malala's example is one of a kind. She wants to be remembered as a girl who tries to help others in whatever capacity she can hold. She did everything possible to let the outer world know about the injustice that the government of her nation committed. She never backed down even after the confrontation between her and the representatives of the ruling power at the head of the Pakistani government.

Further Academic Help

We hope you gained some beneficial information throughout this article which will help you craft a top-notch interview essay for your journalism class. In case of further assistance, our expert writers are here to provide you with interview essay examples APA format at our paper service platform.

Before you go, you are welcome to take an essay writing test for interview to check how well you understood the concept of the article and implement gained knowledge into your upcoming assignment.

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How to Write an Interview Essay Introduction

If you’re looking for freelance essay writers for hire , you’ll want to know what a good interview essay introduction looks like so you can judge the quality of their work. An essay introduction can be tricky to get right, but if it’s written well, it can really pull the reader in and help set the tone for the rest of the essay. 

But before we dive into how to do it right, let’s briefly touch upon what an interview essay really is.

What Is an Interview Essay?

At its core, an interview essay is an essay that explores different perspectives of people on a given topic. Unlike other types of essays, such as argumentative or persuasive essays, an interview essay doesn’t try to win over the reader to one particular point of view. Instead, it allows the reader to better understand the views of those who are interviewed by providing first-hand accounts of their experiences.

When contemplating what makes an essay good , writing an effective essay introduction is of the utmost importance–so let’s take a look at what to include in your introduction.

What Should I Include in an Interview Essay Introduction?

There are a few key elements that should ideally be included in any good interview essay introduction. First, you’ll want to introduce the person or people you interviewed. This can be done by providing a brief overview of who they are and why you decided to interview them. Next, you’ll want to include a thesis statement. This is a sentence or two that sums up the main point of your essay. It should be clear and concise, and it should give the reader an idea of what they can expect to learn from reading your essay.

Finally, you’ll want to conclude your introduction with a brief sentence or two that will leave the reader wanting more. This can be done by providing some of the information you’ll be discussing in the body of the essay, or by asking a question that will pique the reader’s curiosity. There are a few things you can do to spice up your interview essay introduction, which is what we’ll discuss next.

How to Make Your Interview Essay Introduction More Interesting

Start with a bang.

This means starting with something that will immediately grab the reader’s attention and make them want to keep reading. One way to do this is to start with a shocking statistic or fact related to your topic. For example, if you’re writing an interview essay about poverty in America, you could start with the fact that a certain number of Americans live in poverty–this would certainly get the reader’s attention and make them want to learn more about what you have to say.

Use a Quote

Another great way to start an essay is with a quote from someone who is knowledgeable about your topic. This could be an expert on the subject or even someone who has first-hand experience with it. Either way, their words will carry a lot of weight and help set the tone for your essay.

Ask a Question

Asking a question in your introduction can be a great way to get the reader thinking about your topic. This will help engage them and get them invested in what you have to say.

Use Humor 

If used correctly, humor can be a great way to engage the reader and get them interested in your essay. Just be careful not to overdo it, as too much humor can be a turn-off for some readers.

A Solid Interview Essay Introduction

Now that we’ve discussed what to include in your introduction, let’s take a look at an example of a good interview essay introduction:

“In today’s society, it’s easy to get lost in the shuffle. We’re all so busy working and taking care of our families that we often don’t have time for ourselves. This can lead to feeling stressed, overwhelmed, and even angry. But what if there was a way to reduce the amount of stress in our lives?

That’s where yoga comes in. Yoga is an ancient practice that has been shown to provide numerous health benefits, including reducing stress levels. In fact, a recent study found that yoga can be just as effective as medication in treating anxiety and depression.

To determine whether yoga can really help reduce stress in our lives, I decided to interview yoga instructor Jenny Miller. Jenny has been teaching yoga for more than ten years and has helped countless people find relief from stress and anxiety. She was kind enough to agree to answer a few questions about her experience with yoga and how it can help reduce stress.”

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30+ Best Tips on How to Prepare for a Job Interview

Preparing for an interview requires more effort than just Googling a list of common interview questions (though, yes, you should 100% be ready for those). In today’s job market, recruiters are flooded with resumes and applications within hours of a post going live, so if you manage to land a meeting, it’s worth putting in the time to ensure you ace it.

Every company has a different process for interviewing potential candidates—and to some degree, that process is unpredictable. For instance, even if you find a ton of sample interview questions for that specific organization, there’s no guarantee you’ll be asked the exact same ones.

The goal of interview prep is to learn and practice as much as possible so you can feel confident and ready for anything (even questions you don’t have an answer to, which we’ll discuss how to handle later on).

To help you prepare, we compiled a list of our all-time best interview tips—backed by some of the most highly regarded career guides, creators, and advisors out there today. We’ve got 30 plus tips on this list, so strap in, take some notes, and prepare to nail your interview.

1. Research the company

This is first on the list for a reason: It is the single most important step of the interview prep process. You want to research everything about the company from as many sources as you can—including their company profile on The Muse , if they have one! Talk to people in your network to find current and previous employees, read current news stories, and spend time on their website.

“I always tell people to read the company website, including their mission, careers page, and case studies. Then, Google the company to see if they've been in the news recently. If you can ask about those things in an interview, that’s so impressive to the company,” says Erin McGoff, founder of AdviceWithErin .

By looking at multiple sources, you’ll get a broader picture of the organization (along with any negative press), and be ready to talk about why you’d like to work there and what you can do for them.

2. Read the job description carefully

Most organizations use the job description to explain exactly what they're looking for in an applicant—so before your interview, make sure you know said job description almost by heart.

Internalize its key details and try to incorporate them into your answers. “This not only shows that you're well prepared but also that you're a good cultural fit for the company,” says Christian Lovell, of Careers by Chris .

3. Try out the company’s product or service

If the company you’re interviewing with sells a product that you can feasibly check out ahead of time, try it before the interview. For a publisher, purchase a few of their magazines or books and give them a read. If you’re interviewing for a job in retail, engage with some of the goods they sell.

Whatever role you’re applying for, it’s likely that part of your job will be creating value for the people who use that product. So, experiencing it for yourself is a smart move. Plus, it’ll help show the hiring manager that you’re truly interested in the position.

4. Learn about the interviewers

If you can figure out who you’ll be speaking to before the interview, you can do some research on them as well. And if your point of contact doesn’t mention names, it’s totally reasonable to ask for them. Learn about their trajectory at the company and prepare specific questions for them.

During the interview itself, you can ask for details about their role, discuss current events in their field, or bring up a common interest. Just make sure the info you’re referencing is in an easily accessible, public spot, like their company bio or LinkedIn profile, so it doesn’t come off as creepy.

5. Find out the interview type and prepare accordingly

Depending on what role you’re applying for and how far along you are in the process, you might be signing up for a traditional phone call , video interview , or in-person meeting

If the recruiter or HR manager doesn’t specify this, feel free to ask. Also note that some companies might have you meet individually with several different people, while others could arrange group sessions or request an interview presentation .

6. Identify your selling points for this job

Even if you’re a well-oiled interviewing machine, it’s essential to spend time thinking carefully about what skills, accomplishments, and answers will resonate most with your interviewers for this job. Your management abilities? Your creativity? Sam DeMase, founder of A Power Mood , calls these your “superpowers.”

“Know your superpowers before you go into any interview, a.k.a. your value propositions, and how to articulate them,” says DeMase. “Once I figured out how to do that, interviews became very easy for me because I had the confidence to go in and say exactly what I’m good at. I know how to articulate it and sell it.”

7. Be ready to tell the interviewer about yourself

For every interview, you’ll want to have an answer to the most asked question ever: “ Tell me about yourself .” Your response to this should be tailored to the specific job and company you’re interviewing for, and you should know it by heart.

Interviewers almost always ask this question or a similar one—like “ Walk me through your resume ”—to start off the conversation, so you want to make sure you’re getting started on the right foot.

This is one spot where people tend to ramble, and you want to avoid that at all costs. “Treat interviews like conversations,” says Lovell. “You don’t want to give a one sentence answer and stare at them, but you also don’t want to share your whole life story.”

DeMase recommends using her W.A.T. method—which stands for “What you do, your achievements, and tie it into the role”—to answer the "Tell me about yourself" question. “It boils down to a quick elevator pitch,” she says. “It’s not a whole walkthrough of your resume, and it’s not a walkthrough of your last job.”

8. Know why you’re interested in this position

Hiring managers are looking for people who are passionate about—or at least seem interested in—the role. You will almost certainly be asked “Why are you interested in working here,” or “Why are you interested in this role,” and similar to the above tip, you should have a go-to pitch.

Get specific. What about the role calls to you? And the company? What aspects of the work feel exciting to you? Being able to communicate this succinctly and with a positive attitude will go a long way.

9. Do some salary research

During the first interview, which is typically a phone screen with a recruiter or someone else in HR, you may be asked about your salary expectations . Most experts will advise against giving a hard number, the reason being that you’ll often lowball yourself and providing a specific figure can compromise your negotiating power.

Instead, you could ask about the position's salary range during the interview and then decide if it works for you. But to make an informed decision—that aligns with the market rate for this kind of job—do a bit of salary research ahead of time.

10. Prepare your stories

Most interviewers will ask at least a few behavioral questions , which are questions about how you’ve acted or would act in certain scenarios. It's unlikely to anticipate every possible situation, so prepare a few stories from your past work experiences that could be adapted as needed.

DeMase has another method for answering behavioral questions, known as the “CARE” method —which stands for Context, Action, Result, and Evolution.

“This is the most clutch part of the interview, so you have to be ready with your examples,” she says. “That way, when they ask about a time when your client was difficult, a time you disagreed with your boss, or a time you made a mistake, you have those answers ready and you can tell the story in a way that shows what you learned.”

11. Familiarize yourself with the STAR method

Another helpful acronym is the popular STAR method of answering questions—which stands for Situation, Task, Action, Result.

Whenever you’re answering interview questions with a story, you want to make sure that the narrative is well-structured and the takeaway is clear. Your goal is to give the interviewer all the context needed to understand what happened while still answering the question clearly and concisely.

An example of the STAR method in practice is:

• Situation: Briefly lay out the scenario using just enough detail to make the interviewer understand the stakes and everything else in your answer;
• Task: Talk about what was your role in the situation;
• Action: Discuss what you did and why;
• Result : Tell your interviewer about the outcome and what you learned.

It’s worth noting that for some questions you might want to tweak this structure slightly. For example, if you’re talking about a time you demonstrated leadership skills , consider defining what leadership means to you before jumping into the situation. But the STAR method will ensure your stories always have a beginning, middle, and end.

13. Or try the PAR method

If the STAR method feels a bit too repetitive in your interviews, Christian Lovell encourages job candidates to try the PAR method—Problem, Action, Result.

“You want things to be as simple and streamlined as possible because everyone has nerves when they're going into an interview,” says Lovell. “Even I still get a little bit nervous!”

The PAR Method breaks down into the following:

• Problem: What was the problem?
• Action: What did you do?
• Result: What was the result?

This is an easy-to-remember structure that succinctly, but completely, answers the interviewer’s question.

14. Jot down any important numbers and details you find

While you’re doing your interview prep, write down some revenue figures, engagement numbers, budget or team sizes, percentages of time saved, or anything else you can use to communicate your impact in previous roles.

Throwing in some hard numbers when discussing responsibilities and accomplishments can show to a hiring manager that you’re good at what you do. Even writing them down on a post-it can serve as a quick reference during the interview.

Read more: How to Quantify Your Resume Bullets (When You Don't Work With Numbers)

15. Brush up on your interview skills

How you respond to interview questions is important, but it’s not everything. Hiring managers are also consciously—or subconsciously—picking up on how well you use other skills, such as active listening, small talk, and empathy.

“Recruiters are also looking to see if you're a good fit for the team, and if you are someone that they would want to work with,” says Lovell. “So I tell people to let their personality shine a little bit in their interviews.”

16. Practice—but don’t memorize—your answers

Yes, there are many common interview questions to prepare for, but if you memorize them verbatim, your responses may come out sounding robotic. Instead, jot down a few notes or bullet points and keep them on hand for the interview itself. That way, you’ll ensure to cover the bases without reading from a script.

Also, practice looking in the mirror and answering them out loud. This prep work will help you clarify your thoughts and make you much more comfortable during the interview.

17. Think about body language

While we may think we’re relatively aware of our bodies, it’s a good idea to brush up on what certain body language conveys before an interview. Your posture and stance can communicate a lot—and you want to make sure it’s all positive. (For example, sitting with arms and legs crossed sends a message that you are closed-off or feel defensive.)

Think your movements through ahead of time so you’re not distracted (or distracting) during the interview. If on video, consider how to show active engagement in that format—putting the Zoom window near the camera to avoid looking away from the interviewer, for example, or making non-verbal gestures to indicate that you’re listening without cutting off their microphone.

18. Try some mock interviews

If you have the time, do a few mock interviews with a friend, loved one, or even a career coach. Mock interviews are the best way to practice your tone, body language, and general preparation, plus you’ll become much better at answering, “What would you bring to the position?” This will also allow you to iron out the small details, like where you want to put your hands or how you want to sit.

19. Write down questions you’ll ask them

Most recruiters will wrap up with the interview asking if you have questions for them, and you should absolutely have at least a few prepared. “I recommend three to five questions—ideally five, in case they answer some of your questions during the interview,” says McGoff.

You can start with this list of interview questions to ask , but you should also plan some additional questions. “Make them really specific to the role and company,” McGoff adds. “If they had a merger recently, ask how that’s affected the culture. You could ask them what workflow systems they use or how they measure performance. Act like it’s your first day on the job, and think about what questions you would have.”

Also, be sure to ask questions you actually want the answers to. “A big mistake is trying to ask questions that you think the interviewer wants to hear. How can you use that final parting moment as a way to make yourself stand out? Rather than asking a question aimed at trying to seem like the smartest person on earth, I'd recommend showing that you're a curious person who genuinely wants to learn more about a certain area of the company," says Natalie Marie, of Corporate Natalie .

One particular question I love is: ‘What would a day-in-my-life look like once I'm onboarded?’ Of course this varies by industry, but the final part of an interview is a great way to ask questions that spark an interesting conversation with your interviewer.”

20. Plan for what you’ll do if you’re caught off-guard

You can’t prepare for everything, but you can prepare to handle the unexpected—like an interview question you don’t know how to answer . Most experts say to keep your cool and not be afraid to take a moment to think.

“Take a moment to think and embrace silence. It’s OK to think and even repeat the question out loud,” McGoff says. “You can take a sip of water, or say ‘that’s a great question, let me think about that for a second.’ If you’ve blanked on the answer, you can even ask to come back to it. If they’re professional, they should be totally fine with that.”

21. Prepare for technical interviews or skill tests

If you’re getting ready for a technical interview or you’ve been told there will be a skill test, start preparing as early as possible. Working through a prep book or sample questions will not only provide good practice but also put you in the right problem-solving mindset.

Once you’ve prepped for the content of your interview, it’s time to make sure you walk in looking put together and feeling confident.

22. Figure out what to wear

Unless you’re prepping for a phone interview, you’ll need to take your physical appearance into account. “It’s really important to plan what your outfit is going to be, and you want to make sure it’s professional and clean,” McGoff says.

If you aren’t sure what to wear, you can check out a company’s social media or their Muse profile to see how employees typically dress. Generally, it's recommended to present yourself a bit more professionally than on a typical workday. For example, for a casual environment, business casual is appropriate for an interview.

23. Look appropriate and professional

When it comes to appearance, the smallest details can make the biggest difference. Ensure your outfit is cleaned, ironed or steamed, and tailored if needed. Polish shoes, check for loose hems, and make sure your fingernails look neat.

Do a little pampering, because looking your best helps you feel your best—and that may mean needing a haircut, shave, or even a new interview outfit. Remember: Confidence in yourself is key to landing a job.

24. Print out copies of your resume

For in-person interviews, bring at least enough copies of your resume for everyone you’re meeting with, plus one. (It never hurts to have a few extra copies, just in case.) However, if you have a phone or video interview it can still be useful to print out a hard copy of your resume so you can refer back to it.

25. Prepare a reference list

It’s always smart to prepare a reference list before your interview, whether asked for it or not. For each reference, include a name, title, organization, division or department, telephone number, and email address, as well as a sentence briefly explaining the relationship (e.g., “Carlton was my team leader for two years, during which we collaborated on four major product launches”).

For an in-person interview, print out a hard copy, and for any later-round interview, make sure you’re ready to send off the file as soon as asked for it.

26. Test any needed tech

For Zoom and phone interviews, make sure that all the needed hardware, software, and network connections are working as expected. If you can use headphones with a microphone, do so, and ensure they’re connected before the interview begins.

“A bad WiFi connection or a distracting background can really hurt your chances, so test that ahead of time,” says McGoff.

27. Pack your bag in advance

Whatever purse, backpack, or briefcase you carry should be large enough to hold your everyday essentials, plus interview musts, such as extra resumes and a notepad. We recommend packing a small emergency kit for unexpected situations (think: Band-Aids, a stain stick, an umbrella, and breath mints).

Here’s a general checklist of what to bring to an interview so you’re super prepared. And clean out that bag! If you have to dig past candy wrappers, phone chargers, and old receipts to get that resume, you’re going to look a little disorganized.

28. Plan how you’re getting there

Whether driving or taking public transportation, look up your route ahead of time (including parking if necessary). Buy any needed tickets, add money to your metro card, fill up your gas tank—take care of anything that could slow you down on the way to the interview.

Know how long it should take you to get there and add plenty of extra time for potential traffic or transit delays. And above all, make sure to confirm the location with your point of contact, in case there are multiple offices in the same city.

29. Prepare your environment

For remote interviews, ensure your environment is quiet and free of distractions. Lay out anything you'll need to reference during the interview in front of you, along with a notepad, working pen, and beverage.

“You want a good location that is quiet with a strong WiFi connection and good lighting,” says McGoff. For video interviews, you’ll also need to pay attention to what’s going on behind you, so choose a plain or non-distracting background to sit in front of and make sure your shot is free of clutter and well lit ahead of time.

30. Fill in an interview cheat sheet

Remember study guides in school? An interview cheat sheet is sort of the same. It's a way to compile all the details you want to remember, jot down notes about what you want to say and ask, and check off all the essentials for the meeting. Print one out for every interview, read it over the morning of, and you’ll be good to go!

31. Get a good night’s sleep

Don’t underestimate the power of a good night of sleep—and likewise, don’t underestimate how much a bad night’s sleep can impact you. Sleep plays a key role in memory retention and attention span, so you want to clock at least seven to eight hours the night before a big interview. Start winding down for bed earlier than usual, and pack everything so you’re ready to go in the morning.

32. Calm your nerves and/or get psyched

Immediately before the interview (or as close to the moment as possible), get yourself in the right headspace. Expect to be nervous and plan ahead of time to use whatever tools you need. These methods are different for everyone, so think through what will be most beneficial and effective for you.

Perhaps you need to do some breathing exercises or give yourself a pep talk in your car. Whatever helps you get prepared to go into the interview confident, calm, positive, and ready to ace it.

“I tell people to put on their favorite song,” says DeMase. “Play it through your headphones and crank up the volume—this will help you get into the mindset. You want a song that makes you feel good and confident, that will hype you up before the interview. You can read your notes before going in, but you don’t want to be stuck in your head.”

Read more: 12 Different Ways to Calm Your Interview Nerves (Because You've Got This)

A final word on how to prepare for an interview

Interview preparation takes a good chunk of time and a lot of effort, but it’s all in the name of equipping you with the confidence needed to nail all of your interviews. With the right mindset, and these tips in tow, you’re well on your way to securing a new job.

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• 20+ Interview Essay Templates

An interview essay is a simple form of writing that relays the information being gathered through an interview essay template. It is done to make the readers knowledgeable of the items discussed during the interview process. This type of essay allows the writer to relay his or her impressions on the interview that occurred and the precise data from the interview.

Student Interview Essay Template

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The Process of Creating an Interview Essay

• Think first of the topic that you want to write about. This will serve as your guide on selecting the person that you want to interview.
• Know the purpose of your essay. If you think that interviewing just one person is enough, then it will already do good to Word interview one. It also varies on the mood that you want your writing to have.
• Prepare interview questions. Base your questions on your chosen topic so you can already have a guideline on what to ask. With this, you can already create a structure for your essay as you already have an idea of what is going to be in it. An information Sheet will just vary depending on the answers of your interviewee.
• Quoting your interviewer. If you want to quote the interviewee in some parts of your essay, make sure to write the precise sample statement that he or she has said during the interview. If you cannot write at a fast pace, using an audio-recording device to record the entire interview with the permission of the PDF interviewee is of great help.
• Prepare for the essay. After the interview, construct your thoughts and create a flow of ideas where you can insert the items being answered during the interview.
• Start writing your interview essay and make sure that you are following the pattern that you have created for a cohesive thought pre-construction .

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10 Common Job Interview Questions and How to Answer Them

• Vicky Oliver

Use this guide to stand out from the crowd and land the role you want.

Interviews can be high stress, anxiety-driving situations, especially if it’s your first interview. A little practice and preparation always pays off. While we can’t know exactly what an employer will ask, here are 10 common interview questions along with advice on how to answer them. The questions include:

• Could you tell me something about yourself and describe your background in brief? : Interviewers like to hear stories about candidates. Make sure your story has a great beginning, a riveting middle, and an end that makes the interviewer root for you to win the job.
• How do you deal with pressure or stressful situations? : Share an instance when you remained calm despite the turmoil. If it’s a skill you’re developing, acknowledge it and include the steps you’re taking to respond better to pressure in the future.
• What are your salary expectations? : Before you walk in for your first interview, you should already know what the salary is for the position you’re applying to. Check out websites such as Glassdoor, Fishbowl, or Vault.com for salary information. You could also ask people in the field by reaching out to your community on LinkedIn.

Resignation numbers have remained abnormally high in the U.S. between July 2021 and October 2021, with millions of Americans quitting their jobs  — which also means there are millions of new openings up for grabs. If you’re entering the market for the first time, or just looking to make a change, use this guide to prepare for your next interview.

• Vicky Oliver is a leading career development expert and the multi-best-selling author of five books, including  301 Smart Answers to Tough Interview Questions , named in the top 10 list of “Best Books for HR Interview Prep.” She’s a sought-after speaker and seminar presenter and a popular media source, having made over 900 appearances in broadcast, print, and online outlets.    

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Job Interview Essay

Job interview essay generator.

As one would expect during a job interview, your employer may be asking you to write something . This would be in the form of an essay. This is usually about your experiences, your skills and all the basic information they need to know more about you. They do this to see and to understand you as a person. Here are some 7+ job interview essay examples you can check out for some tips on what to write and what to avoid.

7+ Job Interview Essay Examples

1. job interview essay template.

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2. Sample Job Interview Essay

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3. Basic Job Interview Essay

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4. Job Interview Question Database Essay

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5. Job Interview Essay in PDF

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6. Printable Job Interview Essay

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7. Job Interview Strategy Essay

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8. Formal Job Interview Essay

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Define Interview

An interview is a meeting face to face. It is usually a conventional conference . A conversation or a questioning for the purpose of getting information from the interviewee. 

Define Job Interview

A job interview is a dialogue between an employer and the applicant. In a job interview, the employer asks questions about the applicant’s work history, educational history, and skills. 

Things to Avoid in Writing a Job Interview Essay

Some of us get so excited when writing essays, like that of a job interview, but one thing we must remember is to summarize the job interview essay   We often forget that an essay is nothing but a short summary of what we wish to write. But that’s okay. It’s nothing different. But unlike some of the essays you may be used to, there are some things to avoid when writing for a job interview essay. Here are some of the things you need to avoid at all cost.

• Lying about your answers – when writing about what is asked, be careful. Interview questions in an essay may be tricky. Do not make up anything to make your essay sound nice. The interviewer would not be amazed one bit if you lied in your essay. Rather, there is a bigger chance they will not accept you.
• Flowery words – Most of us are guilty with this when writing the essay. It is best to avoid putting flowery words to make it sound like we did these things. Again, your employer has a way of knowing you are being truthful or lying. Avoid this at all costs.
• Too proud – this is often taken for granted but I want to put it right here. Do not boast about the experiences you may not have and write it off as yours. Do not boast about the experiences you have in your essay. You have to remain open and humble.

Things You Should Remember When Writing an Essay

• Voice – keep it professional. The tone in your essay has to be in a professional setting. If you write in a childish manner or as if you are angry at someone, your employer or anyone reading it will surely see that you are not fit for the job.
• Information – write what is asked in the essay. Do not put any other information that is not required nor needed. Example for this information is through a question that goes like this “why should we hire you?” This may sound easy but be very careful as to what you are going to write or say. Do not forget to introduce yourself in your essay.
• Explaining – In some questions in an essay, you are required to explain. Like the sample question above, you must give an explanation in your own words as to why they should hire you. However, avoid saying explanations like “because I am the best”, “I am better than anyone.” This will not only make you lose your opportunity, it is also very rude to tell that to your employer.
• Descriptive – keep your essay as  descriptive as possible . When you are to general in your writing, you are making the person reading confused. Put a little effort to what you are writing.
• Be prepared – when you are going to a job interview, always expect the unexpected. Answer questions as honest as possible.
• Reflect – reflect on what you have written . Understand what you have learned and done. A job interview essay is simply one of many essays you are going to go through.

I want to write about my experiences related to the job, should I write down everything?

Yes you may. As long as you remember that what you are writing is true and correct. As well as be careful on how you word it. Your tone in writing should be professional.

Why am I not allowed to show off my skills in my essay?

Employers are interested in what you have, but they are not interested in the way you talk about it. They prefer to see someone professional talking about their experiences in the same professional tone. Rather than being too cocky.

Is it necessary to know your skills? What if I don’t?

It is better to know what you are good at. When your employer may state you need to write your skills in the essay, you have to be prepared to do so. Ask yourself what you are good at and write it down.

Is there a time limit to writing the essay?

Most companies give a certain amount of time for the applicant to finish the job interview essay. This is so that neither of the two parties are wasting time. Be prepared to write a good essay within a limited amount of time.

Writing a job interview essay can be difficult. It can also be rewarding knowing you did a good job and you have done what you were told to do. Though a job interview essay may not give you the outcome of getting that job, but it is good practice on showing off your skills. Once you find out how to write a good essay for a job interview, all you need to do is to remember the guidelines.

To remember not to be too cocky when writing about your experiences. Do not be too shy either, rather be professional about it. Employers do read your essay, so be careful what you write. Watch your grammar and how you word things as well. This can affect the opportunity of getting that job. With all that being said, I wish you luck.

Text prompt

• Instructive
• Professional

Describe your preparation process for a job interview in your Job Interview Essay.

Reflect on a successful job interview experience in your Job Interview Essay.

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This is what admissions officers really want to read in college essays

The important thing is not to overthink it.

by Allie Volpe

One of the most memorable essays college admissions counselor Alexis White worked on with a student wasn’t about a harrowing personal challenge or a rewarding volunteering experience. “It started with the sentence ‘My hair arrives in a room before I do,’” says White, the founder and director of the consultancy firm Alexis College Expert. “It just was the best. And everybody who reads it loves it.”

College application essays have an infamous reputation for being one of the most difficult aspects of the application process. But it remains a crucial way to share details about your life and interests — a way to distinguish yourself beyond your grades, test scores, and extracurricular activities, even in the era of ChatGPT (more on that later).

Vox’s guide to college application season

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Admissions officers are looking to be entertained when reading application essays, White says. Of course, students should use their essay to showcase their curiosities, character, and point of view, but contrary to popular belief, these personal statements don’t need to recount devastating moments of painful growth. “You can be fun,” White says. “You don’t have to have trauma.”

There are a number of essays students will need to write as a part of their college application. Over 1 million students apply to college through the Common App , a streamlined platform that allows students to apply to multiple schools at once. There, students write a personal statement, usually between 500 and 650 words , centered on a student’s identity, beliefs, accomplishments, and interests, and can choose from among seven prompts for the 2024–25 application season. One prompt even allows the applicant to write about a topic of their choice. “Write the essay that your heart wants to write,” says college essay coach Cassandra Hsiao .

Individual colleges also ask for additional shorter pieces ( around 250 words ), also known as supplemental essays, which may ask applicants to explain why they’re applying to this specific school, and about their academic interests and extracurricular activities.

With so much to write, students need to dedicate serious time and effort — White suggests at least eight weeks — into crafting compelling and effective essays. Here’s what college essay pros want applicants to know.

Make sure your essays are unique to you

Students often put pressure on themselves to have a one-of-a-kind essay topic, White says. There are very few unique concepts, she continues, but what will set you apart is your way into the essay. Start strong with an attention-grabbing first sentence, experts say, that immediately hooks the reader.

Can’t decide what to write? Try these exercises.

Look around your house or room and pick 10 items that spark a memory — like a soccer trophy or a painting you made — and write them down. Or recount a typical day in your life in detail, from the music you listen to in the shower to the snack you grab before bed.

The point, Brook says, is to home in on things that you may think of as humdrum, but that you can use to tell a story about yourself.

Don’t discount minor details when thinking about extracurriculars and accomplishments. “When my kids are stuck, it’s a lot of chatting about things that they think don’t matter and then we typically come to something really great,” says Tyler.

Another tactic is picking five adjectives would you use to describe yourself, suggests White. Expand on each with an experience or memory.

Focus on developing a unique lens through which to see an event in your life, with an original point of view. These can be small moments, says Stacey Brook, the founder and chief adviser at College Essay Advisors . For example, one student she worked with wrote an essay about bonding with her mother during drives to gymnastics practice. After the student got her license and no longer had these moments with her mother, she wrote, she felt a sense of loss. “She was reflecting on what those drives meant to her and what it means to grow up and to gain things and lose them at the same time,” Brook says. “That’s the tiniest moment, the smallest slice of life out of which you can make an incredible essay.”

Even if you’re writing about a common topic, like school sports or lessons learned from an adult in your life, one way to differentiate your essay is to add dialogue, Hsiao says. “It’s in the specificity that only you can write because you went through that,” she says.

Avoid regurgitating your resume, Hsaio continues. Instead, lead the reader through a narrative arc showing your growth. You don’t need to explicitly state what you learned from the experience. Instead, use descriptive, scene-setting language — about how tense you were during that big game or your excitement when you stepped onto the stage — that shows how you’re different on the other side.

Again, you don’t need to share the worst thing that’s ever happened to you — or try to dramatize your life to make it seem more challenging than it is — but help the reader understand the effort you put in to get a new club off the ground, for example. “What you went through objectively might be really small on a global scale,” Hsiao says, “but because it felt big to you and I care about you as the writer, it will feel big to me.”

Don’t even think about copying from ChatGPT (or other generative AI)

While Brook understands the appeal of ChatGPT, experts say don’t use it to write your essay. College application reviewers will be able to tell.

The purpose of these pieces is to display your personality and writing ability and bots will never produce a unique, personalized essay. These chatbots use a style and tone that is immediately identifiable to readers, one that is rife with cliches and an awkward cadence, experts say.

Appropriate uses of generative AI include spell and grammar check or as a thesaurus. “Once you start pulling full paragraphs, you’re cheating,” White says. “It’s not your work.”

Tailor supplemental essays to each school

Depending on the school, you may be asked to write one or two shorter supplemental essays . These prompts may have similar themes, about your academic interests or how you relate to the people around you . For these essays, experts say you can reuse answers for multiple schools — but make sure you revise your answers to be specific to each school.

To ensure you’re tackling supplemental essays efficiently, Brook says to collect all of the prompts for the schools you’re applying to and see where they overlap. Hsiao suggests brainstorming three or four activities, obsessions or aspects of your life you know you want to showcase and try to match these topics to essay prompts. This can be anything from an extracurricular to your favorite TV show. “We are prioritizing what is important in our lives and then showcasing that by mixing and matching per school for the supplemental essay questions,” she says. For example, if you plan on writing about your future major for one college, adapt that essay to each school. However, make sure you’re researching each university and adding details about their specific program to your piece, Brook says.

For essays asking why you want to attend that specific college, ensure your answers are unmistakably catered to that school. “‘I love Delaware because I can’t wait to go to football games and pledge a sorority, and I’m excited about the business school.’ That is not going [cut it] because you could say that about Rutgers,” says Kyra Tyler , a senior director and college admissions consultant at Bright Horizons College Coach. Instead, pepper your answer with details about school traditions, an honors program you hope to join, interesting research opportunities or what you observed when you went on a tour (whether in person or virtual), Tyler says.

Tell a vivid story — and showcase your writing ability

Not only do your essays need to be of substance, but they should showcase style, too.

Tyler suggests students avoid metaphor: Don’t talk about caring for your younger sibling in the context of a Bluey episode — be straightforward. (“Kids can’t get away from [metaphors],” Tyler says, “and what happens is they get stuck under them, and they can’t write.”) You’ll want to write vividly using concrete examples instead of plainly spelling everything out, White says. For instance, if you were a camp counselor who helped a nervous child come out of their shell, write a scene showing the camper interacting with other kids rather than simply saying the camper was less reserved.

Write as if you were talking to your best friend, Tyler says. Avoid slang terms, but let your personality come through your writing. Try reading your essay aloud to see if it sounds like you.

Don’t forget about the basics, like good grammar, proper spelling, and word choice (make sure you’re not repeating similar words and phrases). You don’t need to focus on the five-paragraph structure, Hsiao says. Just make sure you’re telling a compelling story. Have a trusted adult, like a teacher or parent, read your essay to help point out style and structural issues you may have missed.

After you’ve completed a draft, set it aside for a few days, come back to it with fresh eyes for revisions, Tyler says.

College application essays are your chance to share who you were, who you are, and how this university will shape who you hope to be, Hsaio says. Focus on topics you want admissions officers to know and let your voice and passion carry the essay.

Correction, September 19, 11 am ET: A previous version of this story conflated the number of applicants with the number of applications sent through the Common App. Over 1 million students apply using the Common App.

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Master of Business Administration (MBA)

The Reinhardt MBA program develops in each graduate the skills necessary to analyze and interpret complex business situations, to seek and employ innovative methods for solving business problems, and to lead diverse groups of individuals effectively and ethically .  Furthermore, the Reinhardt MBA teaches students to recognize strategic and   operational advantages and to use analytical and critical thinking skills necessary for effective   strategic and tactical decision-making. Reinhardt MBA students learn to utilize interpersonal skills to foster team consensus ,  leadership, business ethics,   and individual as well as social responsibility.

Program Coordinator

Tony   Daniel,   Ph.D.,   SHRM-SCP  Professor of Business 770-720-5638 [email protected]

Accreditation

Reinhardt University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, and masters. Questions about the accreditation of Reinhardt University may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling(404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website ( www.sacscoc.org).

Reinhardt University's overall educational program emphasizes the study of liberal arts, sciences and professional studies within the University's historic commitment to the United Methodist faith and tradition. The University affirms that learning is best facilitated through a partnership between faculty members and students where the integration of faith and   learning   is   essential.   The   University   is   committed to students who desire a small, caring community dedicated to personalized attention.

The MBA program shares the same commitments of the University's overall mission, but with a focus on the graduate student community. The MBA program challenges students academically and “puts them in the chair” of the decision maker in actual business situations. This is done by personal interaction and case   study   assignments with   other   students   and   with   a unique faculty that is academically qualified and seasoned with of business experience.

MBA   Student   Learning Outcomes

MBA students demonstrate the following qualities, abilities, and skills upon completion of the program:

M1 Critical Thinking, Analytical and Problem- Solving Skills -  analyze business situations using information and logic to make recommendations for problem solving and decision making.

M2 Interpersonal, Teamwork, Leadership, and Communications Skills -  use team building and collaborative behaviors in the accomplishment of group tasks and will communicate effectively the problem alternatives considered, a recommended solution, and an implementation strategy in oral, written and electronic form.

M3 Ethical Issues and Responsibilities -  recognize and analyze ethical dilemmas and propose resolutions for practical business solutions.

M4 Business Skills and Knowledge -  apply best practices, established theories, and managerial skills to business situations and problems.

M5 Awareness of Global and Multicultural Issues -  demonstrate awareness of, and analyze, global and multicultural issues as they relate to  business.

M6 Knowledge of Research Methodologies  - derive business decision-making applications based upon sound research practices and procedures.

Admission  Requirements

All admission documents should be sent to the following address:

Office of Admissions  Reinhardt University  7300 Reinhardt Circle Waleska, GA 30183 PHONE: 770-720-5526 e-mail:   [email protected]

General admission to Reinhardt University graduate studies:

• The Graduate Admission Application form—complete and submit the Online Application for Admission
• Submit official transcripts from all institutions attended; proof of a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution should be on one transcript. If a transcript includes any graduate classes, the applicant should have left the graduate program in good standing.

Official transcripts must be mailed from the granting institution, or delivered in   a   sealed envelope from   the institution, or sent via a professional electronic transcript sending service.

Additional admission requirements for the Reinhardt MBA:

• A professional résumé.
• A 300-word essay on how an online MBA fits with the applicant’s career goals
• Three letters of reference addressing the applicant’s ability to carry out graduate course work, with one letter addressing the applicant’s two (2) years of full-time, post- baccalaureate career experience.

And, either

A Bachelor’s Degree in Business from a regionally accredited university with a minimum 2.75 GPA (alternate discretion criteria: a greater than 3.0 GPA in the last 60 credits)

• An online interview with the MBA Program Coordinator or his/her designee may be required.

Note:  If the applicant’s undergraduate degree is not in Business, then, the candidate must have a Bachelor's Degree from a regionally accredited university with at least a 2.75 GPA.

Admission for Current Reinhardt  University Undergraduate Students

Applicants   who   complete   an   a   bachelor’s   degree   at Reinhardt University with a 3.0 GPA or higher-

• Submit the graduate school application
• Students in this category can automatically be accepted without references, interviews, and/or essays by the admissions department

Applicants   who   complete   a   bachelor’s   degree   at   Reinhardt University with less than a 3.0 GPA-

• Submit graduate application
• Students in this category can be accepted without references, interviews, and/or essays but must be approved by the program coordinator
• Other documents may be required at the discretion of the program coordinator

Transfer  Credit

No transfer courses are accepted for credit.

Credit   hour   policy  (Online)

Over seven (7) weeks, students will spend a variable number of minutes per week in online lectures, class discussions, and in preparation of class projects and research papers. Instructional time includes a 3-hour final exam. Out-of-class work includes homework and preparation for exams and quizzes and is a variable number of minutes per week (6750 minutes for the semester).

Graduate Students are expected to participate each week in required assignments as scheduled by the instructor. This may require collaboration among classmates and outside research .

Academic Performance

MBA students are expected to earn grades of “A” or “B” in their course work. Only one (1) course grade of   “C”   may   be   included   in   the   computation   for   degree completion.   A   second   course grade   of   “C”   will   result in   Academic   Probation. The   course   must   be retaken to count toward degree completion.   A third course   grade   of   “C”   or   a   first   course   grade   of “F” will result in Academic Dismissal.

A student may appeal a dismissal by submitting a letter to the vice President for Academic Affairs describing the condition and identifying the reasons for seeking a positive decision of the appeal.

See also Grade Appeals  and Enrollment Related Appeals  under Appeals and Petitions .

Graduation Requirements:

• A cumulative GPA of at least 3.0, and
• No more than (1) one “C” in the program, counted toward degree completion, regardless of the GPA.
• A maximum of 5 years for completion

See Academic Performance and Degree Completion Requirements .

Degrees and Certificates

Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Business Administration (MBA)

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RIP JD Souther: A Consummate Songwriter Talks About Buying Turntables, Mastering for Vinyl, and His Indelible Collaborations with Eagles, Linda Ronstadt, and Roy Orbison

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The SHF album didn't come up in this interview, but I happened to play it just two days ago. It wasn't the blockbuster success it was supposed to be-some say the three writers were saving their best material for solo albums-but I like it quite a bit. The original LP sounds terrific, while the only American CD version available is one of the worst-sounding CDs ever produced. RIP JD Souther, quite a talent, a gentleman, and a guy with a lot of good friends.

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40 years on, Sandra Cisneros says ‘Mango Street’ still speaks to her: ‘I know them so much better now’

Forty years after its publication, “The House on Mango Street” continues to speak to new generations with its themes of identity, culture and the broader search for belonging.

Sandra Cisneros’ groundbreaking novel introduces readers to Esperanza Cordero, a 12-year-old Chicana growing up in a close-knit but poor Chicago neighborhood, as she becomes increasingly aware of her family and community's economic limitations.

As Esperanza's eyes open to her surroundings and the strength and vulnerability of the women in her life, she begins to forge a dream of one day leaving Mango Street.

Composed in a series of vignettes, the book been lauded for bringing Latin American life to the page with authenticity. Cisneros said she based the book off her own childhood in a series of Chicago houses.

“The House on Mango Street” has received numerous accolades , including the American Book Award , and has been a national bestseller. Earlier this year, Jenna Bush Hager selected the classic for her Read With Jenna book club .

After “The House on Mango Street,” the author continued to make significant contributions to literature, poetry, and efforts to push for women’s and Latino rights . She’s also published other notable such as “My Wicked Wicked Ways” in 1987 and the 2002 epic novel “Carmelo.”

To celebrate the book’s 40th year anniversary, TODAY.com interviewed Cisneros about the impact of the novel, which has continued to be a classroom staple.

Did you ever imagine 'The House on Mango Street' would be so influential decades later?

No, absolutely not. I felt very impotent when I was writing it. The book started as a way to uncensor myself, to talk about things I couldn’t address directly.

I was living through things I didn’t know how to write about, so I used an earlier version of myself to discover what I had to contribute to the world. I didn’t write it with any thoughts of fame or fortune. I wrote it to heal myself. I had no agenda of recognition — that was the last thing on my mind.

Did you have any similar works growing up that connected you to your cultural background?

No, I had nothing like "The House on Mango Street" growing up.  The only thing that I had was some very good teachers in high school who taught me college-level Latin American literature. We read Jorge Luis Borges and other great writers, and I’m grateful for that exposure. It wasn’t until later that I discovered Chicago writers like Carl Sandburg and Gwendolyn Brooks, who felt closer to my own experiences. Gwendolyn Brooks was a major influence, and she became a mentor to me later in life. I felt at home in her neighborhood on the page.

How has your relationship with Esperanza, the protagonist of the book, changed since you first wrote her?

The difference is as big as the Grand Canyon. I know them so much better now than I did when I was younger. I am just very surprised at how the characters still speak to me, how easily I can hear them, and how much better I knew them than when I wrote the book in my 20s. When I first started writing her, I was going through a lot in my 20s I couldn’t talk about directly. Since 2017, I’ve been working with Derek Bermel on an opera adaptation of the book. I just am very surprised at how the characters could still speak to me, how easily I could hear them, how much better I knew them than when I wrote the book in my 20s.

Are you excited to see your work come to life as an opera?

This has been such a great experience for me. I’m 69 and going on 70 in December, so it’s so wonderful to realize that every year, you have to learn whatever you thought you learned all over again. It’s like playing with Barbies again, reimagining the characters and story. I’ve been surprised by how well I still know the characters and how clearly they speak to me. I just have had such a blast, and I can’t wait to see it, but I can see it so clearly in my head. 

Derek Bermel sent me a suite of songs called “Mango Suite,” inspired by three vignettes from the book. He took the text, which is very lyrical, and made music out of it. When he proposed turning it into an opera, I thought, “This guy really gets me.” He added a whole new dimension, which excited me to revisit it after so many years.

I’m ready for the opera’s premiere. It was so moving when I heard the singers sing this past summer. I just felt such gratitude.

How old were you when you started writing 'The House on Mango Street'?

I started the book in graduate school when I was 21 going on 22. I had started writing it at Iowa University but didn’t focus fully until I got the National Endowment for the Arts grant in ‘81. On the grant, I quit my job in ‘82, traveled to Cape Cod, then moved to Greece, where I camped on an island called Hydra and finished it on Nov. 30, 1982. I never forget that — it was my first book.

What was the most challenging part of writing the book, and how has your writing process changed since then?

The hardest part was balancing life with writing. Before the NEA grant, writing was always the last thing I did at the end of the day because I had to work to pay rent. I was never fully self-employed until that grant, which allowed me to focus entirely on writing.

What is your perspective on it the book now? Do you ever get tired about people wanting to discuss it with you?

It just means a lot to me. I love it, and I have so many copies of it. So few artists in their lifetime get testaments like I do. I never get tired of hearing that. Look at poor Van Gogh, right? I'm lucky I'm alive to hear that.

Would you tell us about your writing process?

It's very different from when I was young. I just thought, "I'll work. I'll work at night so I don't get distracted." Now, I work after breakfast, and I don’t even make my bed if I’m writing. I permit myself to not worry about things like that. These days, I aim to write about 1,500 words a day. It’s so different from when I was young when I would work under a little architect lamp that was clamped onto my kitchen table. 

What advice would you give your younger self when writing 'The House on Mango Street'?

For someone so young, I think I was very intuitive. I’m very surprised by what I was able to create and how much I was able to create. I never wrote it in linear form. I wrote small pieces and then shuffled them around, arranging them in a way that made sense. I’m pleased with what I did. I’m even more pleased with the new adaptation, which shapes and gives a little more background about some of the characters.

Alex Portée is a senior trending reporter at TODAY Digital and is based in Los Angeles.

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Guest Essay

The Political Cost to Kamala Harris of Not Answering Direct Questions

By Todd S. Purdum

Mr. Purdum is a former White House correspondent and Los Angeles bureau chief for The Times.

When Kamala Harris sat down for just the second major television interview of her campaign last week with the Philadelphia ABC affiliate, the anchor asked her to outline “one or two specific things” she would do to fulfill her pledge of “bringing down prices and making life more affordable for people.” She responded by recalling how she was “a middle-class kid” who grew up in a community of construction workers, nurses and teachers who were “very proud of their lawn.” She recounted her mother’s saving to buy her family’s first house. She paid tribute to a neighbor who became a surrogate parent. She praised the “beautiful character” of the American people.

Only then, after nearly two minutes, did Ms. Harris outline her plan for a $50,000 tax credit for start-up small businesses; private-sector tax breaks to spark construction of three million housing units over four years; and $25,000 in federal down payment assistance for first-time home buyers.

It’s a shibboleth of modern political strategy that candidates should answer the questions they want to, not the ones that are asked, and Ms. Harris faces a unique challenge in this truncated presidential race of introducing herself to an electorate that in many ways still barely knows her. So she might be forgiven for leading with a blizzard of atmospheric biographical detail that makes some voters feel they can’t trust her to answer a direct question.

But in a campaign in which Donald Trump fills our days with arrant nonsense and dominates the national discussion (and polls show a tight race where Ms. Harris is running behind Joe Biden’s level of support in 2020 with some groups), the vice president can’t afford to stick only to rehearsed answers and stump speeches that might not persuade voters or shape what America is talking about.

Writing about politicians for decades has convinced me that direct, succinct answers and explanations from Ms. Harris would go a long way — perhaps longer than she realizes — toward persuading voters that they know enough about her and her plans, which polling surveys now suggest they don’t (yet badly want to). Being known as a straight shooter would also help persuade restive political elites, pundits and journalists that Ms. Harris is grappling with such scrutiny, and I think she’s apt to be rewarded in the end for it.

To be sure, there may be times when Ms. Harris’s best strategy is to stay out of Mr. Trump’s way. But his recent cats-and-dogs attacks on immigrants, and even his angry accusations that Democrats are to blame for the two attempts on his own life, are once again letting Mr. Trump dominate the news cycle after Ms. Harris’s extraordinary convention-to-debate liftoff. And as unhinged as they are, Mr. Trump’s outbursts raise issues of salience and vulnerabilities for Ms. Harris. Perverse as it seems, history has shown that whenever Mr. Trump is the subject of a sentence, he somehow usually manages to benefit.

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Alexandra “Zan” Romanoff’s New Book Big Fan Serves Up Political Intrigue With a Side of Spine-Tingling Romance

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Despite the efforts of bookstores like Los Angeles’s The Ripped Bodice and San Diego’s Meet Cute Romance Bookshop , stories that center romantic love don’t always get their due as the cerebral, witty works of art that they often are. Author Alexandra “Zan” Romanoff’s most recent novella, Big Fan (from the recently launched romance publisher 831 Stories ), most definitely falls into that category, telling the story of a hardworking political strategist who reunites with her former boy band crush.

Vogue spoke to Romanoff about taking romance novels seriously, writing genuinely compelling crushes, and why she thinks Ryan Gosling would be perfect in a big-screen adaptation of her book.

Vogue : What does the process of releasing this book feel like, compared to your previous novels?

Zan Romanoff: Well, my last book came out in late March of 2020, so that in particular was a very tough release. In the week running up to it, instead of planning parties and buying outfits, I was stocking up on hand sanitizer like everyone else. To get to have those parties and see people in person has just been such an incredible experience. There’s been a lot of excitement and energy behind it in a way I’ve never seen before, so that’s been very, very cool.

What drew you to set Big Fan within the world of US politics?

Big Fan is really a collaboration between me and my publisher, 831 Stories . This is the first book they were releasing, and they actually had kind of a sketch for the book before I came on to write it. That was sort of their original pitch—that they wanted to have a political aspect to this book as kind of an announcement of who 831 is. I really loved it. I have been very involved in politics in the last handful of years, and I think people often talk about romance being a political genre, which it is, in a way, because it’s about prioritizing love and pleasure for women, and sometimes it’s about women having bodily autonomy—although not always.

I understand the instinct that we all have about politics and romance feeling opposite from one another, but I really don’t think that they are, right? People have all kinds of experiences, and it’s not antithetical to have an intellect and also a heart, and whatever body parts are involved in a romance novel.

What’s the secret to writing a really good, consuming crush?

For me, the secret to writing a good crush is longing—that’s always the thing that I look for in a love story, and the thing that really does it for me is that feeling of wanting something so badly and also feeling distance from it. The emotion that I default to is that feeling of looking at someone across the room and wanting to be where they are. The other big trick for me is being specific; I talk about this a lot in terms of sex, because it’s very easy to just sort of be like, “He had a hot body and she had a hot body, and they wanted to touch each other’s hot bodies.” But this question I have had has been about the person inside of that body; you know, it’s not just, “I want to touch her arm.” It’s like, “I want to hear her laugh, touch her arm, and smell her smell. I want her to tell me that joke that she tells in the way that only she can.” I think that feeling of being specifically obsessed with one person is really what turns it from sort of lustful ogling into that overpowering crush.

What are some of your favorite literary romances?

One fantasy novel that has a great romance is Kristin Cashore’s Graceling. And more recently, I loved Lio Min’s Beating Heart Baby, which I reviewed for the Los Angeles Times when it came out.

How would you dream-cast Charlie and Maya?

I really thought about it the other day—and this is never going to happen—but Ryan Gosling would be the perfect Charlie. I mean, he’s the most talented, funny, and wonderful actor. He’s unbelievably charming and so good looking, but he also has a Disney backstory, so he could handle the singing scenes. For Maya, I don’t have as strong of a feeling, but she’s very self-confident and self-assured. I would want it to be clear immediately that when she walks onscreen, you can’t take your eyes off her. You know, she’s not a beautiful tiny child model or a 25-year-old girl playing 35. She is a woman.

This conversation has been edited and condensed.

Big Fan: A Modern Romance

Vogue Daily

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