Your interview protocol should:

• Script bookends: Open and close with prepared statements. Set the stage, ensure consent, invite final reflections.
• Include consent: Provide clear info sheets, obtain signed agreement.
• Start soft to build rapport: Easy background queries create a conversational atmosphere.
• Embrace open-ended inquiries: “Tell me about…” invites rich responses. Avoid yes/no traps.
• Be grounded in literature: Let existing research guide your focus. Don’t reinvent the wheel.
• Be structured for comfort: Concrete to abstract. Recent experiences to reflective questions.
• Armed with prompts: Anticipate sticking points. Prepare follow-ups for hesitant participants.
• Stay flexible: Reorder or add questions mid-interview. Natural flow trumps rigid adherence.
• Respect time constraints: Aim for 6-10 questions per hour. Value participants’ generosity.
• Be piloted and refined: Test with colleagues. Revise based on early interviews.