What is a Structured Interview?

A structured interview is a systematic approach to assessing candidates through a consistent set of pre-determined questions. In HR, it ensures fairness, minimizes bias, and facilitates objective comparison among applicants.

Key Features of Structured Interviews

• Standardized Questions: All candidates are asked the same set of questions to ensure consistency in the interview process and enable direct comparisons.

• Objective Evaluation: Uses a scoring system to rate responses, reducing interviewer bias and ensuring more reliable hiring decisions.

• Focused Criteria: Questions are aligned with specific job requirements, allowing for a thorough assessment of the candidate’s suitability.

Importance of Structured Interviews in HR

Structured interviews are vital for HR professionals as they provide a fair, transparent, and legally defensible hiring process. For instance, a technology company using structured interviews for software developer positions can compare candidates' problem-solving skills objectively, leading to better hiring decisions.

Related Terms

• Behavioral Interview

• Unstructured Interview

• Competency-Based Interview

Comparison: Structured Interview vs. Unstructured Interview

• Standardization vs. Flexibility: Structured interviews involve pre-set questions, while unstructured interviews allow spontaneous dialogue.

• Reliability vs. Depth: Structured interviews enhance reliability through consistency, whereas unstructured interviews can explore topics in depth, but risk varying from objective criteria.

Benefits of Structured Interviews

• Enhanced Fairness: Ensures each candidate is assessed on the same criteria.

• Improved Accuracy: Allows for data-driven decision-making and reduces the risk of biased judgments.

• Legal Compliance: Provides a defensible process that can protect organizations against discrimination claims.

Best Practices for Structured Interviews

• Develop Clear Criteria: Align questions with the competencies necessary for the role.

• Train Interviewers: Ensure consistency and fairness by providing interviewer training.

• Use Scoring Rubrics: Create detailed scoring guides to evaluate responses effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Structured Interviews

What is the main purpose of a structured interview?

To enable fair and objective evaluation of all candidates based on the same criteria and questions.

How do structured interviews improve the hiring process?

They reduce biases, increase consistency, and provide reliable data for making informed hiring decisions.

Are structured interviews applicable to all roles?

While beneficial for many positions, some roles may require a combination of structured and unstructured approaches to assess creative or high-level strategic thinking thoroughly.