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	Ask the Editor
	D Dear Editor, I need to do research for a book and it requires me to interview people. I wanted to know if it is standard policy to pay the interviewee for their time and information? Thank you for your time. C. Johnson in Sacramento Dear C. Johnson in Sacramento, This is an interesting question—one that is often taboo in the industry. The answer to your question is both yes and no. The outcome depends on how extent the interview is. In most cases, if your request is a simple one, there is a good chance the person or entity that you are interviewing will not charge you. However, if you have an extensive request, there is a possibility that you may be charged. One must remember that in most cases, the person you are interviewing is a business owner and the questions and research information you are seeking is geared towards that business or industry. Keep in mind; most authors consider their writing their business—as they should. This is really judged on a case by case basis. It is not common practice to charge someone interviewing an author for example, if that interview is being placed in publication or on the internet. It is important to ask the person you intend on interviewing beforehand if there is a charge. It is also important to be very clear with your request. This could be the difference of payment or non-payment. Thank you for your question. Do you have questions about the literary industry? Are you a writer looking for answers on how to publish a book? Literary Wonders! now offers "Ask the Editor". You can submit your question by emailing it to asktheeditor@literarywonders.com and we will answer your question within 48 business hours. When posing your question, please be specific as the literary industry as a whole is very broad. When submitting your question, please use the following example as a guideline: Dear Editor, I have finished my manuscript and wanted to know if it is really necessary for me to obtain an editor? Signed Ann B. in Dallas (or A. Black in Dallas) Your answer will be sent to the email you provide and may be featured as a feature question on Literary Wonders! home page and The Author's Hideaway blog. Please keep your questions professional in nature. Let's get those questions answered! Sincerely, Yolanda M. Johnson-Bryant Editor