PRIMARY RESEARCH: E-MAIL & INTERVIEW 11 COMMANDMENTS

1. try to find a 'figure of authority' (academic; regulator; media practitioner; pressure group; politician) - any names pop up in newspaper articles, for example, you've read?
2. this would be an example of secondary research influencing primary research, which is something you want to highlight throughout your Q1 answer
   
3. aim to send 4 or 5 to increase chances of a response
4. its always good to briefly quote something the individual has said - shows you're switched on ... and massages their ego!
5. keep it brief
6. keep it brief
7. keep ... I think you get the point; assume your target is v busy and will skim thru emails - make it easy for them to see what you want
8. an opening sentence states 'I am researching the topic of/issues around...' - don't bother saying you're a student unless you think this will help you get a response
9. a 2nd sentence: 'I'd welcome any views on ...' - you could simply use your research question here - do pose a question for them to answer though
10. a 3rd sentence - 'any views you might have on this - or other areas related to this topic - would be greatly appreciated'
11. a 4th sentence: 'I can appreciate the time pressures you work under, though would welcome the opportunity to briefly follow-up your response to this e-mail with a telephone interview (of no more than 5 supplementary questions); if you can spare the time to do this please let me know in your reply'