What should you do with a recording device during interviews?

• A. Do not use a recording device unless you have permission
• B. Always record every interview
• C. Record without informing the interviewee
• D. Use the device without consent if it's quiet

Answer: (A)

Obtaining informed consent before recording is essential in interviews. Recording can help ensure accuracy and accountability, but it must be done transparently. You should only use a recording device after you have explicit permission from the person you’re interviewing, and you should clearly explain the purpose of the recording, how it will be used, who will have access to it, and how long it will be stored. If the person declines to be recorded, you should respect that decision and proceed using notes or another acceptable method of documentation. This protects privacy, maintains trust, and aligns with legal and organizational policies. The other approaches ignore consent and privacy, which can erode trust, violate rights, and potentially breach policy or law.