#interviewprocess

What is a Structured Interview?

A structured interview is a type of interview in which the interviewer asks a predetermined set of questions to the interviewee. This type of interview is often used in research and job interviews to ensure that all candidates are asked the same questions and evaluated using the same criteria. In contrast, an unstructured interview is more free-flowing and allows for more flexibility in the questions asked and the topics covered.

What are the types of interview structures?

There are three types of interview structure: fully structured, semi-structured, and unstructured. Here are the main differences between them:

Fully structured interview

A structured interview is a conversation in which an interviewer asks an interviewee a set of predefined questions in a specific order. The interviewer collects the responses of the candidate and grades them against a scoring system. The main goal of a structured interview is to ensure that each interview is consistent, fair, and objective.

Semi-structured interviews

 The interviewer has a list of core questions to ask every candidate but also has some flexibility to ask follow-up questions or probe deeper into certain topics. The questions are usually open-ended, meaning they allow the candidate to elaborate on their answers. For example, “Tell me about a time when you used Excel to solve a problem” or “How do you cope with stress at work?”

Unstructured interviews

The interviewer does not have a predetermined set of questions to ask, but rather engages in a free-flowing conversation with the candidate. The questions are spontaneous and based on the interviewer’s intuition and interest. For example, “What are you passionate about?” or “What are your career goals?

How to conduct a structured interview?

Conducting a structured interview requires some preparation and planning. Here are some steps you can follow to conduct a successful structured interview:

Define the job requirements

Before you design your questions, you need to identify what skills, knowledge, and personality traits are essential for the job. You can use a job analysis or a competency framework to help you with this step.

Design your questions

Based on the job requirements, you need to create questions that measure the relevant criteria. You can use one or more of the types of interview questions – situational, behavioral, or job-related. You can also use open-ended or closed-ended questions, depending on your goals. Make sure your questions are concise, clear, and unbiased.

Create a scoring system

To ensure consistency and objectivity, you need to create a scoring system that assigns points or ratings to each possible answer. You can use a numerical scale (e.g., 1-5) or a descriptive scale (e.g., poor-excellent) to grade the answers. You can also use behavioral anchors or examples of good and bad answers to guide your evaluation.

Conduct the interview

When you conduct the interview, you need to follow the same order of questions for every candidate. You also need to record their answers and score them according to your scoring system. You can use notes, audio recordings, or video recordings to capture the responses.

Compare the results

After you conduct all the interviews, you need to compare the results across candidates. You can use simple statistics (e.g., mean, median) or more advanced methods (e.g., regression analysis) to analyze the data. You can also use other criteria (e.g., references, tests) to complement your decision.

How to prepare for a structured interview?

If you are a candidate who wants to prepare for a structured interview, here are some tips you can follow:

Research the company and the role

Learn as much as you can about the organization’s mission, vision, values, culture, products, services, customers, competitors, etc. Also, review the job description and identify the key requirements and competencies that are expected from you.

Review your resume and portfolio

Make sure your resume is updated and highlights your relevant skills and achievements for the role. If applicable, prepare a portfolio of your work samples or projects that demonstrate your abilities and potential.

Practice your answers

Anticipate some of the possible questions that you might be asked during the interview and prepare your answers in advance. You can use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers in a clear and concise way. You can also practice with a friend or a coach who can give you feedback and suggestions.

Dress professionally and arrive on time

This goes for all interviews. Choose an outfit that is appropriate for the company’s dress code and culture. Make sure you are well-groomed and comfortable in your clothes (even if it’s an online interview), and arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time.

Before the interview assessment, I hadn’t actually prepared or had a job interview for quite some time. As previously mentioned, since I’ve held a long tenure at my current job, an interview is not something I was fully prepared for. With the subject and Sharyn’s assistance, I was able to gain back some confidence and preparedness. Learning how to talk positively about yourself and your experiences is something very critical to the interview process. Social skills and relationships are key to giving yourself success in job interviews (Flower et. al, 2019).

After some practice in class and at home, going into the interview I was quite confident. If you know the right things you should be saying, then there is no reason you can’t replicate it in the interview environment. You may be nervous, but as long as you can be coherent and articulate throughout it will hold you in good stead. I wore a shirt and slacks with some boots, a smart casual outfit as that is something that will leave an impression on the interviewer. 

My technique was to sit straight, make eye contact and have good posture throughout. I believe I mostly achieved those things. If there was one thing I would critique myself on it would be that my eye contact may have slipped occasionally. I believe my interview all went well and I’m now confident that I have what it takes to give myself the chance to succeed in the future. I even got a compliment from Sharyn about my haircut afterwards!

Over the years I’ve always been quite confident in public speaking and pressure, so I feel that I’m never too flustered when asked a question. One key tip I have learnt is to always have real life examples ready to explain a situation or skill. Knowing what questions may be asked and having answers ready to go is a very important aspect. Lastly, we learnt at the end of interviews to always ask a question or two back, as this shows your interest and involvement in the process.

Techniques to Crack the Interview Easier

ABC of Interview Preparation by iHub Talent explains how you need to prepare for your interview.

Check Out Video: https://bit.ly/3LtumGW

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Resume and Interview Tips - A Complete Guide - Chegg India

A resume is a document of a page or two where you can display top qualities and skills. Resumes help organizations in hiring decisions. Through resume, hiring management shortlist the capable candidates for the interview.

The interview is a casual process of conversation in which you and an employer of the organization exchange information. Your goal should be to present yourself as the best candidate for the desired position. 

That’s why it matters most how you design your resume and what information to include in the resume.