For this assignment, write a two page summary of the interviews you have conducted. Include quotations (<30% of the paper) from the interview as select examples of how the participants’ words supported your summary of the interview outcomes.
If you are given permission by the instructor to rather write your observations, write a two page summary of your observations giving specific examples of actual words, behaviors, and events that support your summary of the observation outcomes. Include a copy of the interview questions in an appendix to the paper (page 3).
Preparation for Interviews (from week 5):
Students were expected to complete the interviews in week 6. Interviews will be confidential and you do not need to share the names of the individuals or organization. Read these instructions together with the instructions for the Organizational Problem Assessment paper (in syllabus).
You will interview two people in your current or previous organization who have observed or have been involved in the situation you choose for your Organizational Problem Assessment Paper to gather additional data.
If this is really not possible, you may request permission (by email, stating your reasons) to rather document your observations in detail based on your own experience (observations will be required to be written in a systematic and objective style).
In order to prepare, begin to think of good interview questions. About 5-7 questions is usually enough. The aim of the interview is to get an additional perspective on the problem, which might be different from your own. Attempt to stay neutral in the interview and see what you can learn. Ask questions that are open ended and could shed light in the problem. Also consider the following interview tips:
• Interview questions must be open-ended rather than closed-ended. For example, instead of asking a closed ended question like, “Were the resignations caused by the leader?”, which invites a yes or no answer, rather ask “What were the causes of the resignations?”
• Avoid leading questions. For example “Were the resignations caused by the leader?” suggests the interviewer has a theory on the problem and is not exploring causes. This might cause the interviewee to answer in a way that seems pleasing to you or in agreement with you.
• Avoid asking multiple questions in one, which confuses the interviewee: “When did the problem start, and what do you think was the cause, and what can be done about it?”
• Some of these additional questions can be subquestions or probes that can be used if needed (if a complete answer is not provided). Probing questions can include:
o Can you give an example of that?
o Can you tell me more about that experience or issue?
o Can you share anything else on that issue?
• Take notes during the interview so you can write them up for the assignment in week 7. If you have permission, record the interview so you can listen to it later.
• The interview should be about 20 – 30 minutes. You should ask questions and listen rather than giving your opinions.
• Assure the interviewee that the interview is confidential and that you will not share what they say or who they are with anyone. The instructor will treat your paper as confidential. You will not be required to identify (name) the people you interviewed or the organization for this assignment (to ensure confidentiality).