Research is a conversation with focus - Lightning talk
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The document discusses the process and mindset for conducting research conversations, emphasizing that it's a natural human interaction rather than a formal or technical task. It encourages engagement by relating to the interviewee on a personal level, maintaining a flexible structure, and focusing on building rapport. The key takeaway is to embrace the openness of the dialogue and focus on learning rather than aiming for perfection.
Research is a conversation with focus - Lightning talk
- 1. RESEARCH … a conversation with focus
- 2. It’s nothing to be scared of! ‘Research’ sounds technical. But - it’s just an opportunity to talk to someone about what they do. People like talking about what they do, their problems and achievements. It’s natural human behavior to talk about ourselves. It’s just our job to channel that to learn what we need to. You don’t need to go in knowing the answers, that’s the point! Don’t feel pressure to get it 100% ‘right’ any new learning is valuable!
- 3. It’s a conversation between human beings. You talk to people all the time – at work, at home, conducting an interview, buying a coffee. These aren’t conversations with Software Engineers, Data Architects, or IT directors, they’re all conversations with human beings, you’re a human being. MOST people aren’t defined by their job; they have lives, families and outside interests. Taking an interest in them early, helps break the ice, and helps the conversation flow.
- 4. Ask them how they are… Relate to them as people early. – busy commute? So have you! They live in a cool city you’ve visited? Mention it! Don’t be afraid to make (appropriate) jokes. Have we spoken to them before? Mention it and ask how things are going since. It builds rapport and connections and they’ll open up more to you. Do this throughout the call.
- 5. A CALL PLAN IS NOT A SCRIPT.If you’re bored, they will be too
- 6. But, a structure is useful! Context Topic 1 Topic 2 Topic 3 Anything else/ Follow up/ Deeper Dives What’s happening in their world? Go wide and narrow down toward your first research objective. What are the specific things we’re interested it? Wide first then drill down. Maintain the focus. What have we missed that’s important to them? Opportunity for them to open up, they’ll appreciate it! – If not, go deeper on your main objectives. Intro Thank them – remind them they’re the expert
- 7. FOLLOW THE THREADS “Oh that’s very interesting…..: IS IT? THEN FOLLOW IT! That’s where the gems are!
- 8. Make handwritten notes! Your teammates have the verbatim notes covered. You can focus on what they’re saying. Have a scrap of paper to scribble notes, connections and questions on. It empowers you to connect the dots between different things they say and how they relate. This helps with follow-up questions and keeping the conversation flowing.
- 9. REMEMBER YOU’RE IN CONTROL. Don’t be afraid to refocus the conversation toward your objective. “Thanks - we’ll note that down for later” If they ask you a question you can’t answer, rephrase it as “What does that mean to you?” If you’re not learning anything, end the call! Some calls/people WILL JUST BE CRAP – don’t let it dishearten you! It’s not a perfect science, people are messy, but it’s the most valuable learning we have. EMBRACE THE VAGUE!
- 10. THANKS More to come on this…