Page 55 - Nutrition Counseling and Education Skills: A Guide for Professionals

each. At times a situational interview is presented, giving the candidate scenarios to explain what he or she
would do.

The same interviewing principles and techniques are used, but for a different purpose. With potential
employees, the interviewer wants to find the individual with the capability of performing the duties and
responsibilities of the job according to the job-related knowledge, skills, abilities, and behaviors in the job
description. Because federal legislation outlaws discrimination based on race, color, religion, gender,
pregnancy, national origin, age 40 and over, and disability, questions about any of these are avoided as they
may lead to costly lawsuits.5 Those who need more information should consult additional resources.4,5

Conditions Facilitating Interviews

For best results, professionals need to increase their effectiveness as interviewers by doing the following3:

• Clearly define the purpose of the interview to the interviewee.
• Attend to verbal and nonverbal behaviors by listening and building rapport.
• Provide freedom from interruptions.
• Provide psychological privacy.
• Have appropriate physical surroundings.
• Have emotional objectivity.
• Consider the personal context of the respondent.
• Limit note taking or explain why notes are needed.

Purpose

The purpose distinguishes interviews from social conversations.3 The interviewer needs to explain the purpose
of the interview, or the respondent may be wondering why the questions are necessary. Without an answer, a
person may be reluctant to respond. With healthcare clients, one can stress that the interview is necessary to
provide assistance with healthcare recommendations. For example: “Let’s do a careful evaluation of the foods
you eat and see if we find any suggestions for improving your choices.” With job applicants, note that it is
important to find an employee who will be satisfied with the company and the position. If the purpose is clear
and understood, better cooperation from the interviewee may be expected.

CASE ANALYSIS 4

What is the purpose of the interview with Mrs. Maynard?

Attentiveness and Rapport

Professionals need skills in listening—an active, not a passive, process that requires a great deal of
concentration. Listening attentively helps to build a collaborative relationship with the person and to create a
climate in which the interviewee can communicate easily. The interviewer should listen carefully and assist
respondents in communicating their thoughts, feelings, and information. The conversation includes both
verbal and nonverbal behaviors. Periodically paraphrasing or summarizing confirms that you are listening and
trying to understand.

Bear in mind that the interviewee is also observing you. Frequent looking at one’s watch, using electronic

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