That's Life: Don't Be Frightened, I Just Want an Interview
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Over the years, tracking down people I want to interview has often been a challenge. But, once I have made up my mind to write a story, I am as persistent as Sherlock Holmes was when searching for clues.
I have found that generally people in the public eye have been as, or even more, cooperative as the average Joe or Jane.
Mary Grant, president of Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, returned my call when she was in a chauffeured car on her way to a speaking engagement in Boston. "I'm calling from my cell phone," she said.
Actress Kate Burton was driving to Cape Cod when I reached her by cell phone — I had obtained the number from her agent. "I'll be rehearsing a play all this week," she said. "I'll call you back this evening." She kept her word and was candid and friendly.
A few years ago I was committed to delivering a story about the influence teachers have on their students. I spoke to an educator, a businesswoman, and former Gov. Jane Swift, who lives in Williamstown. Swift was not at home or in her business office when she spoke to me. Yes, she was in her car, driving to a meeting. But, she gave generously of her time to answer my questions.
I realize that people in the public eye are not the only ones who lead busy lives. So, I always ask anyone I need to interview when it would be convenient for them to talk with me. Most ask, "When is your deadline?" A mother of three teenage boys, whom I asked if she would be willing to talk with me about what it is like to be a "sports mom," replied, "Sure."
But when I called her that evening, as we had arranged, she was too busy to contribute anything to my story. "I'll call you back tomorrow," she said. That was a year ago, and I have yet to hear from her. Don't misunderstand, I did try several times to reach her, but to no avail. She might have disappeared for all I knew. I guess I really needed Sherlock Holmes to come to my aid in that situation.
Recently, I interviewed an elderly gentleman for a preview story (one that is written about an event before it transpires, enlightening readers about what entertainment, activities, etc., will be offered). About 10 minutes into the interview, the gentleman said, "Why are you asking all these questions, aren't you going to be there?"
Some people are leery of anyone who asks them questions, and I, therefore, make it clear to interviewees that I am not looking for or planning to concoct a sordid tale, at their expense.
Once when a friend invited me to a dinner run by her church, we sat at a table with a group of women she had known for years. I was acquainted with only two of the women, but it turned out all of us at the table had in common being mothers and grandmothers.
As we chatted about the joys and problems that come with motherhood, one woman told of her son being devastated when his wife sued him for divorce. Then eyes fixed on me, she said. "Oh, I better be careful what I say."
"Why?" I asked.
"You'll put it in the newspaper, she replied. Apparently she had connected my name and face with those that appeared with the column I wrote for a local newspaper.
I assured her I always ask people's permission before I quote them — by name — in print.I like getting to know people, and have learned much from those I have interviewed or those with whom I initially just struck up a conversation. And I certainly would not want to be shunned by anyone because he or she was under the misconception that I am someone to be feared.
So please don't run when you see me; honestly, I'm harmless.
