Economics

Interviews can be valuable sources of information in economics. Some considerations are:

• Is the subject representative of the group? For example, is a welfare mother representative of many, a few, or most welfare mothers?
  
• How knowledgeable of the problem is the subject? Company officials, elected representatives, members of a profession may share useful insights into problems.
  

Procedures:

• You should prepare for a research interview by knowing as much as possible about the subject before scheduling the interview.
  
• You may arrange for the interview by telephone or letter. Try for a mutually agreeable time. Request a specific time period, for example, a half hour. Be on time and limit the interview to the time period.
  
• Prepare a list of questions before the interview. Open ended questions that call for more detailed answers may give greater insight to problems.
  
• Keep a careful record of the name and position of the interviewee, date and time of the interview. Strive for accuracy in any quotes. Observe confidentiality if requested.
  
• Write a report of the interview immediately afterwards while impressions and information are fresh.
  
• Follow up with a thank you letter expressing gratitude for the person’s time and assistance.
  

Did you know?

Economics students are encouraged to join Phi Beta Lambda, Phi Theta Kappa or Student in Free Enterprise (SIFE).