Interview Types and Techniques

Which of the following best describes a structured interview?

• A conversation with no pre-set questions

• An interview with a flexible flow

• A scripted set of pre-planned questions

• An emotional storytelling session

In structured interviews, questions are usually:

• Random and spontaneous

• Written by the interviewee

• Prepared and asked in a fixed order

• Based on casual conversation

What is a disadvantage of structured interviews?

• They are too emotional

• They lack consistency

• They may limit follow-up opportunities

• They are too casual

Unstructured interviews are most useful when:

• You want to collect statistical data

• You need quick factual answers

• You want deep, open-ended responses

• You're conducting a press conference

Which describes an unstructured interview?

• Only yes/no questions are allowed

• There's no specific set of questions

• It follows a rigid script

• It is always done via email

A risk of unstructured interviews is:

• They are too predictable

• They are too expensive

• They may go off-topic easily

• They can only be done in person

Semi-structured interviews combine:

• Structured and formal writing

• Pre-planned questions with flexibility

• Unscripted and chaotic style

• Press releases and memos

In a semi-structured interview, the interviewer can:

• Only read the script

• Skip any questions

• Add follow-ups based on the answers

• Avoid interaction

Semi-structured interviews are great for:

• Public announcements

• Exploring both consistency and depth

• Short yes/no answers

• Breaking news

What is a key benefit of face-to-face interviews?

• They're quick to send

• You can observe body language

• They don't require scheduling

• They are fully anonymous