Breaking news often relies on more than just press releases and official statements. The real depth comes from expert interviews, providing context and analysis that transforms information into understanding. But how do you, as a journalist or news outlet, effectively secure and conduct these interviews? Are you struggling to find the right experts or craft insightful questions that get to the heart of the story?
Key Takeaways
- Identify experts by searching professional associations’ directories and university faculty pages, aiming for at least three potential interviewees per story.
- Craft targeted interview questions that directly address the news angle, focusing on “how” and “why” rather than easily searchable facts.
- Record all interviews, even off-the-record conversations, to ensure accurate quotes and provide a reference point for later fact-checking.
The Atlanta Metro News Network (AMNN) almost missed the biggest story of the year. It started with a seemingly routine press release from the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) about a proposed expansion of I-85 near the Buford Highway exit. Congestion at that interchange is awful, I know – I drive through there every week. Most outlets simply re-reported the GDOT announcement. AMNN, however, assigned the story to a junior reporter, Sarah Chen, who felt something was missing.
Sarah, fresh out of UGA’s journalism program, sensed a deeper narrative. She remembered a conversation with a professor about the environmental impact of highway expansions. Could this project have unforeseen consequences? She knew she needed an expert’s opinion to validate her hunch. That’s where the real challenge began.
Sarah’s first hurdle: finding a credible expert. She started with a Google search, which yielded a mixed bag of self-proclaimed gurus and biased advocacy groups. This is a common pitfall. As Dr. Emily Carter, professor of environmental science at Georgia Tech, explains, “Identifying truly objective experts requires careful vetting. Look for individuals with verifiable credentials, peer-reviewed publications, and a history of unbiased commentary.”
Sarah then remembered her professor’s advice: leverage professional organizations. She visited the website of the Georgia Association of Environmental Professionals (GAEP) and found a directory of members. Bingo. She identified three potential candidates specializing in transportation and environmental impact assessments. This is a far better approach than relying solely on search engines.
Her first call was to Dr. David Lee, a senior consultant at an environmental engineering firm in Norcross. He was initially hesitant, citing company policy about speaking to the media. “Many experts are wary of misrepresentation or being quoted out of context,” notes Maria Rodriguez, a veteran news editor at the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. “Building trust is paramount. Explain your angle, assure them of accurate reporting, and offer to review quotes before publication.”
Sarah, remembering Rodriguez’s advice from a guest lecture, patiently explained her story’s focus: the potential environmental impact of the I-85 expansion on the nearby Chattahoochee River watershed. She emphasized her commitment to fair and accurate reporting. Dr. Lee agreed to a brief interview.
But the interview almost went nowhere. Sarah’s initial questions were generic: “What are the environmental impacts of highway construction?” Dr. Lee gave a textbook answer, citing well-known facts about air and noise pollution. It was bland and uninspired. He was about to politely end the call.
That’s when Sarah pivoted. She asked a more specific question: “Given the proposed expansion’s proximity to the Chattahoochee River, what specific pollutants are most likely to impact water quality, and what mitigation strategies could GDOT employ?” This targeted question, focusing on the “how” and “why,” sparked Dr. Lee’s interest. He launched into a detailed explanation of stormwater runoff, sediment control, and the potential impact on aquatic life. He even mentioned a specific GDOT study from 2024 on similar projects. A GDOT spokesperson later confirmed the study’s existence.
The interview yielded a crucial piece of information: the proposed expansion could potentially violate the Clean Water Act if proper mitigation measures weren’t implemented. This was the angle AMNN needed.
Sarah then contacted Dr. Carter at Georgia Tech, who provided additional context on the long-term ecological consequences. “It’s not just about immediate pollution,” Dr. Carter explained. “Highway expansions can fragment habitats, disrupt wildlife corridors, and contribute to urban sprawl.” She cited a recent study published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology that highlighted the impact of infrastructure development on biodiversity in the Atlanta metropolitan area. According to Georgia Tech’s website, Dr. Carter has been researching urban environmental issues for over 15 years.
With these expert insights, Sarah crafted a compelling news story that went beyond the GDOT press release. The story highlighted the potential environmental risks of the I-85 expansion and questioned whether GDOT’s proposed mitigation measures were sufficient. AMNN’s report prompted public outcry and led to a series of town hall meetings where residents voiced their concerns. Facing mounting pressure, GDOT agreed to conduct a more thorough environmental impact assessment, delaying the project and potentially altering its design. And it all started because Sarah didn’t settle for the surface-level story.
I had a similar experience last year while covering a zoning dispute near the intersection of North Druid Hills Road and Briarcliff Road. A developer wanted to build a large apartment complex, and residents were concerned about increased traffic and overcrowding. I spoke with a local urban planning professor at Emory University, who helped me understand the complex interplay of zoning regulations, infrastructure capacity, and community needs. Her insights were invaluable in providing context and depth to my reporting.
Here’s what nobody tells you: expert interviews aren’t just about getting quotes. They’re about learning. They’re about challenging your assumptions and expanding your understanding of the issue. They’re about finding the hidden angles that make a story truly impactful. Remember, preparation is key. Research your topic thoroughly beforehand, and come prepared with specific, targeted questions that will elicit insightful responses.
Consider recording all interviews, even background conversations. I know, it sounds like overkill. But trust me, it’s saved me more than once. I had a client last year who claimed they never said something that was clearly on tape. Having that recording was the only thing that kept me from getting sued. Even if you don’t directly quote someone, their insights can inform your reporting and help you identify other sources and potential angles.
Ultimately, Sarah’s success wasn’t just about finding experts; it was about asking the right questions and listening carefully to the answers. It was about going beyond the surface and uncovering the deeper story. And that’s what separates good journalism from great journalism. That’s what builds trust with your audience. That’s what holds power accountable.
Want to elevate your news reporting? Focus on crafting laser-focused questions that experts can really sink their teeth into, and you’ll uncover angles nobody else is seeing.
In today’s world, it’s also important to be able to trust what you read and ensure the facts are accurate.
How do I find experts who are willing to be interviewed?
Start by searching directories of professional organizations related to your story’s topic. University faculty directories are also excellent resources. Contacting public information officers at universities and research institutions can also connect you with relevant experts.
What kind of questions should I ask in an expert interview?
Focus on open-ended questions that require more than a “yes” or “no” answer. Ask “how” and “why” questions to elicit detailed explanations and analysis. Avoid questions that can be easily answered with a quick Google search.
How do I build trust with potential expert sources?
Be transparent about your story’s angle and your commitment to accurate reporting. Offer to share quotes for review before publication. Respect their time and expertise, and be patient if they are initially hesitant.
Is it okay to record expert interviews?
Yes, it’s generally acceptable to record interviews for accuracy and reference, but always ask for the expert’s permission beforehand. State laws regarding recording conversations vary, so familiarize yourself with the regulations in your jurisdiction.
What do I do if an expert asks to go “off the record”?
Clarify what “off the record” means to the expert. It typically means that you cannot directly quote them, but you can still use the information to inform your reporting and guide your research. Never agree to keep something “off the record” if you’re not comfortable with the terms.
