4.3 Where to conduct the interview

It is important to retain authority when it comes to the issue of the interview's location. The quality of the recording largely depends on the interview's surroundings. So in order to obtain the best possible data the interviewer should try to make the surroundings as comfortable as possible, so that the interview is enjoyable for both him/her and the informant (and that the informant relaxes to tap into the vernacular). If possible, the interview should not be conducted outdoors, next to a fridge, a running fan, a television, a motor, a mantle clock, an aquarium or anything else that potentially makes loud noises, as this may interfere with the sound quality. The living room is usually a good choice, especially if it has a carpet, which will serve as a kind of insulation, thus enhancing the recording's sound quality (cf. Tagliamonte 2006: 45). Also, smooth tables and chairs with comfortable backs always come in handy, especially when considering that an interview may take up to two hours. Protection from weather and sun as well as good lighting are also issues which need to be taken into consideration (cf. Crowley 2007: 94).

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