How to Conduct Interviews by Telephone and in Person : Book Review

In "How to Conduct Interviews by Telephone and In Person," James H. Frey offers a comprehensive guide for conducting effective interviews. This book covers both telephone and in-person interviews, providing practical tips and techniques for various interviewing scenarios.

Frey begins by emphasizing the importance of thorough preparation. He discusses the significance of researching the interviewee, creating clear objectives, and crafting thoughtful interview questions. By following Frey's guidance, interviewers will be well-prepared to gather necessary information and make informed decisions.

Throughout the book, Frey provides valuable advice on building rapport and creating a comfortable environment that promotes open communication. He emphasizes the importance of active listening, non-verbal cues, and asking effective follow-up questions. Frey also offers strategies for handling difficult interview situations, such as dealing with uncooperative interviewees.

One of the strengths of this book is its practicality. Frey utilizes real-life examples and case studies to illustrate concepts, helping readers understand how to apply these techniques. The book also includes useful checklists and templates that interviewers can use to structure their interviews effectively.

Overall, "How to Conduct Interviews by Telephone and In Person" is a valuable resource for anyone involved in the interviewing process. Frey's expertise shines through his comprehensive advice and practical examples, making this book a valuable tool for interviewers of all experience levels. Whether conducting interviews over the phone or face-to-face, this book provides valuable insights to ensure successful and fruitful interviewing experiences.

What are readers saying?

James H. Frey's book, "How to Conduct Interviews: by Telephone and in Person," has garnered a mix of feedback from readers. The book sets out to provide guidance on conducting effective interviews in both telephone and in-person settings, but opinions on its usefulness and quality differ among readers.

Some reviewers found the book to be a valuable resource for conducting interviews. They praised the author's practical advice and tips, stating that it offered a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. These readers appreciated the guidance on interview preparation, building rapport with interviewees, and asking relevant questions. They deemed the book to be an invaluable tool for interviewers, whether they were beginners or experienced professionals.

However, others were disappointed with the book's content. They felt that it lacked depth and failed to provide enough practical examples or case studies. These reviewers believed that the information presented was too basic and easily accessible through a simple internet search. Consequently, they expressed a desire for more advanced techniques and strategies to enhance their interviewing skills.

Several reviewers also critiqued the organization and structure of the book. They found it disorganized and poorly formatted, which made it confusing and difficult to follow. These readers believed that a more coherent structure would have greatly improved the overall reading experience.

The writing style of the book was another point of contention among reviewers. Some praised the author's straightforward approach, which made the content easy to understand. On the other hand, some readers found the writing to be dry and lacking engaging storytelling, making it challenging to maintain interest throughout the book.

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