The Security Risk Assessment Handbook, 2nd Edition

Data Gathering  ◾  131

© 2011 by Taylor & Francis Group, LLC

Be Patient—Just prior to revealing insightful information, many respondents

pause sometimes for what seems to be a long time. Wait—own the silence,

be comfortable with the pause—the good stu is coming.

Provide Transitions—When moving from one topic to another, be clear that

your questioning has changed direction. For example, “Moving on to….”

SIDEBAR 5.6  Interviewing: Tricks of the Trade

Performing interviews effectively can be a complex process. The difference in results from an

experienced and skilled interviewer and an inexperienced interviewer can be quite substantial.

Although much of this skill will come in time as more interviews are performed, the following tricks