Why are structured interviews regarded as the best type of interview according to hiring guidelines?

Structured interviews are viewed as the best type of interview primarily because they allow for consistent questioning and answers. This standardized format ensures that all candidates are evaluated on the same criteria, which enhances fairness and objectivity in the hiring process. By asking each candidate the same set of predetermined questions, interviewers can more accurately compare responses and assess qualifications based on a uniform set of metrics.

This consistency helps reduce biases that may arise from unstructured conversations, where the nature of the questions can vary significantly from one candidate to another. In addition, structured interviews can lead to more reliable predictions of job performance since the questions are often aligned with the specific skills and competencies required for the position. This approach has been shown to improve the validity of the selection process, allowing organizations to make more informed hiring decisions based on objective data.

While factors like ease of preparation and the interview environment are essential in the recruitment process, they do not contribute to the fundamental strength of structured interviews in promoting a fair and systematic evaluation of candidates.