The Walk and Talk Interview

Conducted on the move rather than seated across a table, the walk and talk interview often produces a looser, more conversational tone than a formal sitting would. Physical motion seems to ease some subjects into candour that a static, face to face arrangement can inadvertently discourage.

The format brings practical challenges: recording quality suffers outdoors, the surrounding environment can distract from the conversation, and note taking becomes considerably harder while walking. Interviewers who favour this style typically rely heavily on a well positioned recorder rather than written notes. A well positioned, reliable recorder becomes essential here, since written notes are rarely practical while moving.

Despite the logistical cost, many practitioners find the trade worthwhile. A subject who might freeze slightly under the direct gaze of a formal sitting often relaxes considerably once the interview becomes something closer to a shared walk than an examination. Many practitioners judge the looser, more candid material this format tends to produce well worth the added logistical difficulty.