Do as much research as possible in advance on the person and/or topic you are working on.? Sources might include the library, public records, the internet and people you know who can provide background information.?

Prepare your questions in advance in writing and bring them to the interview.? Refer to them but don't show them to the interviewee, because it creates too formal an atmosphere.?

Ask other questions as they might arise, based on what the interviewee says or something new that might come to you on the spur of the moment.? Bring two pens and paper.?

Bring a tape recorder if you can but be sure to get the permission to use it from the person you are interviewing.? You also should take notes, because it will help in the reconstruction phase, and, yes, tape recorders fail occasionally.