•TranscribeFast Team

Managing Interview Time: Covering Key Topics Within Constraints

Learn effective strategies for managing interview time while ensuring comprehensive coverage of important topics.

Time management is a critical skill in qualitative interviewing. This guide will help you structure your interviews to maximize the value of limited time while maintaining a natural conversation flow.

Planning Your Time

According to Rubin & Rubin (2012), effective time management starts with:

  • Setting clear time boundaries
  • Prioritizing key topics
  • Creating a flexible schedule
  • Building in buffer time

Structuring the Interview

Recommended time allocation for a 60-minute interview:

  1. Introduction and rapport building (5 minutes)
  2. Background questions (10 minutes)
  3. Main topics (35 minutes)
  4. Closing and wrap-up (10 minutes)

Time Management Techniques

Effective strategies for staying on track:

  • Use a timer for each section
  • Prepare transition phrases
  • Have a "parking lot" for off-topic points
  • Use visual time markers

Handling Time Constraints

When time is running short:

  • Prioritize remaining questions
  • Use efficient follow-up techniques
  • Consider scheduling a follow-up
  • Summarize key points quickly

Flexibility and Adaptation

Maintaining quality while managing time:

  • Adjust depth based on time available
  • Use efficient probing techniques
  • Balance structure with spontaneity
  • Know when to extend the interview

References

  • Rubin, H. J., & Rubin, I. S. (2012). Qualitative interviewing: The art of hearing data.
  • Brinkmann, S., & Kvale, S. (2015). InterViews: Learning the craft of qualitative research interviewing.