How do you find a serious partner for a business?
The COVID-19 pandemic has affected businesses in many ways, with some being hit harder than others. As a journalist or researcher, you may be tasked with interviewing business owners or managers to gain insight into how their companies were affected. However, getting straight to the point in these conversations can be tricky, especially if the person you are interviewing is emotional or overwhelmed. In this blog, we will discuss some tips for getting straight to the point in a conversation with a business owner or manager about how their business was affected during the pandemic.
Firstly, it is important to approach the conversation with sensitivity and empathy. Many business owners and managers have gone through a lot of stress and anxiety due to the pandemic, and may be hesitant to open up about their struggles. It is important to establish a rapport with the person you are speaking to, and to let them know that you understand the difficult situation they are in. You can start by asking how they are doing personally, and expressing your concern for their well-being.
Once you have established a rapport, it is time to get straight to the point. One of the best ways to do this is to ask specific, pointed questions that require detailed answers. Avoid open-ended questions that could result in rambling or vague responses. For example, instead of asking, "How has the pandemic affected your business?" you could ask, "What specific challenges has your business faced as a result of the pandemic, and how have you responded to them?" This type of question is more likely to elicit a clear and detailed response.
Another strategy for getting straight to the point is to be clear about your purpose for the conversation. Let the business owner or manager know that you are conducting research or gathering information for a news article, and that you need specific details to accurately represent their experiences. This can help them focus on the most important aspects of their story, and avoid getting sidetracked by irrelevant details.
It is also important to be respectful of the person's time. Many business owners and managers are extremely busy, and may not have a lot of time to chat. Let them know that you appreciate their willingness to speak with you, and that you will try to keep the conversation as brief and focused as possible. This can help them feel more comfortable opening up about their experiences.
Finally, be mindful of the tone and language you use in the conversation. Avoid using jargon or technical terms that the person may not understand, and be sure to speak clearly and concisely. Use active listening skills to show that you are engaged in the conversation and value their perspective.
In conclusion, getting straight to the point in a conversation with a business owner or manager about how their business was affected during the pandemic requires a delicate balance of empathy, sensitivity, and directness. By asking specific questions, being clear about your purpose, respecting their time, and using clear and concise language, you can get the information you need while still showing empathy and understanding. Remember to approach each conversation with an open mind and a willingness to listen, and you will be able to gather valuable insights into how businesses have been impacted by this unprecedented event.
