Interview Techniques
Introduction
Interview techniques are methods and strategies used in the process of conducting an interviews. These techniques are employed by interviewers to gather information from interviewees, and they vary depending on the context and purpose of the interview. The application of these techniques can significantly influence the quality and reliability of the information obtained during an interview.
Types of Interviews
There are several types of interviews, each requiring a different set of interview techniques. These include structured interviews, unstructured interviews, semi-structured interviews, behavioral interviews, and stress interviews.
Structured Interviews
Structured interviews involve a predetermined set of questions that are asked to all interviewees in the same order. This type of interview is commonly used in research and survey studies, where consistency and comparability of responses are crucial. The interview techniques used in structured interviews are designed to minimize interviewer bias and maximize reliability.
Unstructured Interviews
Unstructured interviews, on the other hand, are more flexible and conversational. They do not follow a strict format or set of questions, allowing the interviewer to adapt the interview based on the interviewee's responses. The interview techniques used in unstructured interviews are often more open-ended and exploratory, aiming to gather in-depth information and insights.
Semi-structured Interviews
Semi-structured interviews are a combination of structured and unstructured interviews. They involve a set of predetermined questions, but the interviewer has the flexibility to probe further or ask additional questions based on the interviewee's responses. The interview techniques used in semi-structured interviews balance between consistency and flexibility, aiming to gather both standardized and in-depth information.
Behavioral Interviews
Behavioral interviews are based on the premise that past behavior is the best predictor of future behavior. In this type of interview, interviewees are asked to provide specific examples of how they have handled situations in the past. The interview techniques used in behavioral interviews include asking situation-specific questions and using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure responses.
Stress Interviews
Stress interviews are designed to test the interviewee's ability to handle pressure or difficult situations. They involve intentionally stressful or challenging scenarios to assess the interviewee's reactions. The interview techniques used in stress interviews can include asking difficult questions, interrupting the interviewee, or creating a challenging interview environment.
Interview Techniques
The techniques used in interviews can significantly influence the quality and reliability of the information obtained. These techniques can be broadly categorized into questioning techniques, listening techniques, and non-verbal communication techniques.
Questioning Techniques
Questioning techniques are crucial in interviews. They involve the use of different types of questions to gather information, clarify responses, and probe deeper into the interviewee's thoughts and feelings. These can include open-ended questions, closed-ended questions, probing questions, leading questions, and reflective questions.
Listening Techniques
Listening techniques are equally important in interviews. They involve active listening, where the interviewer fully concentrates, understands, responds, and then remembers what the interviewee is saying. These techniques can include paraphrasing, summarizing, reflecting, clarifying, and providing feedback.
Non-verbal Communication Techniques
Non-verbal communication techniques involve the use of body language, facial expressions, gestures, and tone of voice to convey messages and emotions. These techniques can influence the rapport and trust between the interviewer and interviewee, and they can provide additional insights into the interviewee's thoughts and feelings.
Conclusion
Interview techniques are essential tools in gathering reliable and in-depth information from interviews. They require a balance of effective questioning, active listening, and non-verbal communication. The choice of techniques can depend on the type of interview and the purpose of the information gathering. With the right techniques, interviewers can enhance the quality of their interviews and the reliability of the information obtained.