Users are inclined to give better answers and recall moments more effectively when they are relaxed and have trust built with the interviewer. Here are some tips on how this can be achieved:

- Have a video or phone call (or any interaction) with the user before the interview
- Before the day of the interview, including the beginning of the interview itself, explain the reason for the interview, and how the data collected will be analyzed
- Start with questions that are easy for the user to answer and can be interpreted as friendly and non judgmental


Ohio State University, Columbus

A face to face interview (whether in-person or virtual) can be intimidating for users. They can be hesitant to disclose fully and truthfully if they feel uncomfortable. Here are several techniques the interviewer can utilize to quickly build a reputation and trust with an user:
- Be explicit with the purpose of the interview and how the data collected will be used
- Offer acknowledgement cues (head nodding, eye contact, saying “I see”) to ensure the user that they are being listened to 
- Let the user finish thoughts and do not rush the pace, or interrupt 
Withhold personal judgements or assumptions and express empathy for the user. You should be trying to elicit their viewpoints, not change them


Building Rapport

https://www.nngroup.com/articles/user-interviews/

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