Final answer:
Behavioral interviews focus on past behavior as an indicator of future performance, often using the STAR method. Unstructured interviews are varied and casual, while structured interviews are consistent and systematically scored. Social and nonverbal cues also influence the outcome of interviews.
Step-by-step explanation:
Differences Between Types of Interviews
A behavioral interview is a technique used by interviewers to understand how a candidate has acted in specific situations in the past, with the underlying belief that past behavior is a good predictor of future behavior. The STAR method, which stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result, is commonly used to answer these types of questions. In contrast, unstructured interviews are more open-ended and can vary greatly between candidates. Structured interviews, however, involve asking each candidate the same questions and scoring their responses using a standardized system, which helps in making fair comparisons.
For example, Xin Ja might use the STAR method to articulate how she previously handled a complex project under tight deadlines, showcasing her problem-solving and time management skills, which align with the job requirements.
Additionally, interviews themselves can vary from informal interviews, which are like guided conversations and allow for more control from the interviewee, to formal structured settings which are more systematic and standardized in approach. Social factors such as body language and nonverbal cues also play a significant role in the outcome of an interview.