Interviewing for Radio

'Jim Beaman’s Interviewing for Radio is a classic and seminal practice text, brilliantly written and masterful in its content. Nobody working in professional radio can do without it. It is a must for all radio courses and I could not recommend it more highly' - Tim Crook, Head of Radio, Goldsmiths College, University of London, UK

Interviewing for Radio is a thorough introduction to the techniques and skills of the radio interview. It offers advice on how to ask the right question and elicit a response, and guides the reader through the use of equipment, the mechanics of recording, the studio environment, live broadcasts, presentation and pronunciation, and editing material.

Written by an experienced producer and instructor, Interviewing for Radio includes:

• the history of the radio interview and the importance of its role today
• practical exercises which introduce successful interview and technical skills
• case studies and hypothetical scenarios to help you prepare for potential difficulties
• a discussion of ethics, risk assessment, codes of conduct and regulations

This second edition has been thoroughly updated and includes advice from a new range of practitioners, and examples of recent UK and international interviews. The author critically analyses these interviews and explains the preparation, organisation and expertise required in order to produce a successful radio broadcast. Interviewing for Radio references both new and existing regulations and guidelines for UK journalists, then offers a global perspective by drawing on the differences and similarities with those applicable to other countries.

This invaluable book is supported by a companion website that includes audio interviews with practitioners accompanied by a range of student exercises, a comprehensive glossary in the form of interactive flashcards, and suggested links for further listening.

Jim Beaman is Senior Lecturer on the Journalism and Radio Production courses at the University of Gloucestershire, UK. His broadcasting career includes presenting, producing and reporting for BBC Radio, and he has also worked as an instructor with BBC Radio Training. He is the author of Programme Making for Radio (2006).