Hilariously Bad Interview Questions

I was working my first job out of college that required me to cover NASCAR -- which I knew absolutely jack about. I did my research and prepared a bunch of questions for some of the drivers who would be in town for the big race and headed to the sort-of media day at the track nervous.

I was set to do a feature on Carl Edwards, having read this great story online about how he was viewed as one of the more intelligent racers out there. Knew how to get the most out of his car, could outthink his competition, etc.

I lead my interview with him with something to that effect, asking him where he developed that reputation. Structured the whole interview around this idea.

He pauses, finally speaks and goes on to disagree with the question -- very politely though.

"Um, I don't really think that's true. Really, I don't."

Me (inwardly): FUCK.

Somehow fumbled my way through that one. Then, 20 minutes later, I asked Jimmie Johnson about being on the Roush team (he was not). Not my finest day.

I have to say, though, this thread has really made me think about how I structure my interviews. I've picked up quite a few good pointers -- yet another reason why this site is fantastic.

 

Not a really bad question.. but bad timing,,

Bob Knight presser after a big home loss.
First question-
Reporter asks, "So coach what are you doing for x-mas."
Knight says politely, "Who was the first man to walk on the moon?"
Reporter responds, "Neil Armstrong."
Knight says, "I don't think he is the one." And asks all the other reporters in the room.
Everyone says Niel Armstrong. Knight says, "It was that Buzz guy." We all disagree.
Knight: "Anyways Buzz called me and asked if I wanted to go to the moon for the holidays?"
He pauses, stands up and looks at the initial reporter and says. "WHY THE HELL do you care what I am doing over the X-mas holidays?"
He leaves. Press conference over. I'm laughing my ass off even though no more questions were fielded.