MA COLLEGE OF LIBERAL ARTS

Interview Guide

Some background:

Conducting Interviews of Key People - This pre-retreat preparatory step asks key staff to conduct interviews of people who are highly relevant to their part of the business, program, or department to obtain feedback on staff, organizational performance, thoughts about trends and identification of growth opportunities. Some people who could be interviewed include students, faculty, staff, administrators, donors, high school guidance counselors, business representatives, alumni, other college representatives, State and local legislators, volunteers, colleagues, and partner organizations.

Interviews are an excellent way to help key staff become more “extroverted” while providing a positive way to do personalized marketing. Because interviews provide both positive feedback and constructive criticism, they help to ground staff in their business and provide an opportunity to reflect upon and respond to the feedback.

A question and some suggested tips to consider before you begin your interviews:

• Who are the key people important to your Department, Program, Unit, Division, and/or organization?

• Interview key people and others who can add to your understanding of trends and opportunities.

• Interview some people you know who are not enamored with you or your organization.

• "We're beginning our SM process and respect your ideas and opinions … could I meet with you to ask some brief questions that would be helpful to me and my Department/College."

• Write back to those interviewed (thank you from Department Leader /President).

Interview Guide