In conducting your interview, it is extremely important to listen closely to the words that are coming from the elected official. Be certain you address any clarification required and continue emphasis on the points of your policy issue that are critical for its success.
Expand upon the basic questions you have prepared on your policy interview. An interview that receives full points provides you with more information than you expected from the interview questions.
If you choose to tape record the conversation, be sure to ask permission. Have the official sign (i.e.: bottom of this sheet) as the source of verification of the interview. [You dp not send this sheet off to someone to fill out for you, as the purpose of this task is to actually conduct an interview]. After you have completed your interview, you should send a thank you note to the official expressing your appreciation for his/her time.
Refer to Sample Toolkit as a
Introductions and “Thank-you for the opportunity to discuss the Policy Issue.”
Purpose and Background of the Policy
Questions
1.As an elected official, how can you assist me in moving this policy issue forward.?
2.What are the salient issues and concerns you are aware of that may affect the passage of this policy?
3.What is perception on how the media covers local policy issues like this example? What is your advice on how to should facilitate media attention to cover this community issue? What, if anything, would you suggest I need to act upon or change to move this policy issue forward?
4.What do you propose or recommend that I have yet to do to ensure this community challenge becomes a successful policy change?
Summary and Closure
Name and Office of Interview Subject (printed)
Signature of Interview Subject
Phone or E-mail of Interview Subject