Which type of interview is characterized by a lack of structure?

The type of interview characterized by a lack of structure is the unstructured interview. In this format, the interviewer does not follow a predetermined set of questions, allowing for a fluid conversation that can adapt based on the responses of the candidate. This approach fosters a more open dialogue and can lead to deeper insights into a candidate's personality, thought process, and suitability for the role.

Unstructured interviews often encourage candidates to share their experiences and viewpoints more freely, which can reveal information that a rigid question-and-answer format might miss. This flexibility can also help interviewers gauge a candidate's fit within the company culture and assess their soft skills more effectively.

In contrast, structured interviews involve a set list of questions that are asked in the same order for every candidate, which can limit the depth of responses and the ability to explore unique aspects of a candidate's background. Formal interviews generally refer to the setting and tone rather than the structure of the questions asked, while depth interviews focus on gaining in-depth information about a candidate, often using open-ended questions but still may include a degree of structure. Thus, the unstructured approach distinctly stands out due to its lack of a predefined format.