There are many things that need to be done during an oral history to make sure the interview runs smoothly. If you are recording a video, you should try to find someone to help you conduct the interview and discuss the role your helper will play during the interview. Finally, at the end of the interview, you must get written permission from the narrator to use the oral history.

If you are recording the interview on video, you should make sure to bring a second person with you to handle the equipment, even if the equipment is just your phone. During the oral history, you should focus on your narrator, not on your phone or camera. It is your helper’s job to record the video and to choose the best location for the interview and to set up the camera. Your job is to talk with the narrator and make sure they feel comfortable.