Imagine you’re a detective investigating a complex case. You need to gather information from various witnesses, each with their own perspective and potential biases. How do you ensure you get the most accurate and complete picture possible?

That’s where the art of interviewing comes in. And in the context of project recovery, conducting effective interviews is crucial for understanding the root causes of the project’s troubles and developing a successful recovery plan.

Now, you might be tempted to just wing it, to sit down with each team member and have a casual chat. But trust me, there’s a more strategic and effective approach.

Think of it like this: you’re not just gathering information; you’re building trust, creating a safe space for people to share their experiences and insights. This requires careful planning and a specific set of skills.

Here are two key principles to keep in mind:

1. Confidentiality is Key:

Imagine you’re a journalist interviewing a whistleblower. They need to know that their identity will be protected, that they can speak freely without fear of reprisal. Similarly, in a project recovery, people need to feel safe to share their honest opinions and experiences without worrying about repercussions.

This means explicitly emphasising the confidential nature of the interviews. Reassure each interviewee that their names won’t appear in any reports and that their feedback will be used solely to understand the situation and develop solutions.

This confidentiality fosters trust and encourages people to be more open and candid. They’re more likely to share sensitive information, which can be crucial for uncovering hidden issues and identifying the real root causes of the project’s challenges.

2. Two Heads are Better Than One:

Think of a surgeon performing a complex operation. They don’t work alone, do they? They have a team of nurses and assistants to support them. Similarly, in a project recovery, conducting interviews is best done as a team.

Ideally, you should have at least two interviewers: one to lead the conversation and ask questions, and another to take detailed notes and observe non-verbal cues. This “two heads are better than one” approach offers several advantages:

• Improved focus: The lead interviewer can concentrate on the conversation, building rapport with the interviewee and ensuring the discussion stays on track.
• Comprehensive record: The note-taker can capture all the key details, including both verbal and non-verbal communication, providing a more complete record of the interview.
• Objective perspective: Having two interviewers provides a broader perspective and reduces the risk of individual bias influencing the interpretation of the information.

If you’re leading a large-scale project recovery, you might even consider having multiple interview teams to ensure you can gather information efficiently and effectively.

By following these guidelines, you can transform your interviews from casual chats into powerful tools for understanding your project’s challenges and developing a successful recovery plan. Remember, it’s not just about gathering information; it’s about building trust, fostering collaboration, and creating a shared understanding of the path forward.