The Ins and Outs of Writing Profiles

If you're discussing sensitive topics (especially when dealing with clients) give the interviewee the questions in advance to make her more comfortable; ask, but don't press; and ensure she realizes that she has control over the final copy.

If you do the interview and it turns out awful, all is not lost, Miller said. You could always use the content in a roundup, follow up with the interviewee to get more information or have someone else do a new interview.

5. Write the profile
To determine how the story should develop, look to the nut, the central element of the story.