What To Expect

Tell Your Story interview is 40 minutes of uninterrupted time for meaningful conversation with a friend or loved one. What are the questions you want to ask and the memories you want to preserve? No matter how well you know your storyteller, a little preparation will improve the quality of your interview enormously. We’ve designed a great question generator to make it easy for you.

When you arrive at your session with a friend or loved one, a trained Tell Your Story Facilitator will meet you to explain the process, make you feel comfortable in the recording space, and sit with you during the interview session. If you come alone, the facilitator will conduct the interview.

There are 6 basic steps:

  1. Welcome (2 minutes): The Facilitator will provide some background information about Tell Your Story, explain his or her role in the interview process, and answer any questions you might have
  2. Prep (8 minutes): The Facilitator will walk you through the paperwork, which asks for basic personal information such as name, address, and ethnic background
  3. Video/Soundcheck (5 minutes): Once you and your interview partner are ready to proceed, the Facilitator will make sure you are positioned well for recording and check the audio levels
  4. Interview (40 minutes): Use your question list, but remember they are just suggestions to get you started. Trust your instincts. When you hear something that moves you, ask more questions. Sometimes your storyteller will need “permission” to explore a certain topic; you can simply say “Tell me more”. Feel free to ask questions in whatever order feels right, and don’t let them constrain the conversation. Real moments are the best moments.

    Some tips for helping the conversation flow:

    - Look at your storyteller’s eyes, not the microphone or camera. Stay interested and engaged
    - Be yourself; you can laugh or even cry with your storyteller.
    - Emotional questions like “how does this make you feel?” often elicit thoughtful responses. Don’t be afraid to ask.
    - Be curious and honest and keep an open heart. Great things will happen.

    While you and your partner are talking, the Facilitator will take notes, keep time, and monitor audio.
  5. CD (4 minutes): When the interview is over, the Facilitator will email you a copy of the interview. He or she will also explain the release form, which allows Tell Your Story to archive your story on the Tell Your Story library.
  6. Photos (6 minutes): Finally, the Facilitator will take photos of you and your interview partner, both together and separately. These photos will be included in the Tell Your Story archive.

Interview Tips and Suggestions

  • Arrive ten to fifteen minutes before your scheduled interview time.
  • Bring a list of questions with you. If you need help, try our Question Generator.
  • Bring a bottle of water for you and your interview partner.
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