Which guideline for conducting a personal interview?

• A. Explain purpose
• B. Try to identify the caller
• C. Summarize details before hanging up
• D. Hang up last

Answer: (A)

Setting expectations from the start by explaining the purpose of the interview is essential because it builds trust, clarifies what information will be sought, and shows how it will be used. When you state why you’re contacting the person and what you hope to accomplish, the interviewee can respond more openly and provide relevant details. This clarity also supports ethical and professional standards in private investigations by ensuring informed consent and avoiding surprises about how the information will be used. While other practices like identifying the caller, summarizing details at the end, or simply ending the call politely are helpful, they don’t address the core aim of making the interview productive and voluntary by establishing why you’re there.