Final answer:
Directed interviews are a type of structured interview focused on problem-solving, where standardized questions and scoring systems are used to evaluate candidate responses. The STAR interview technique is commonly used to structure responses in these interviews. Directed interviews facilitate the comparison of candidates by assessing problem-solving strategies and critical thinking abilities.
Step-by-step explanation:
Types of Interviews
Interviews can broadly be categorized into unstructured and structured formats. In an unstructured interview, the interviewer may vary questions for each candidate and does not score responses using a standard system. This type of interview allows for more natural conversation but is less consistent when comparing candidates.
In contrast, a structured interview involves asking all candidates the same pre-determined questions and rating their responses using a standardized scoring system.
This allows for an objective comparison of candidates. The directed interview, often focused on problem-solving, falls under the structured category, where specific questions are aimed at understanding the candidate’s approach to solving problems.
The STAR interview technique is often used in directed interviews to elicit clear narratives of how candidates have handled past situations.
STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result, providing a framework for candidates to structure their responses. Problem-solving strategies in such interviews include identifying knowns and unknowns and recommending solutions based on critical analysis.
During the problem-solving stages of the interview, candidates might engage in various creative techniques such as brainstorming or mind searches to illustrate their thought process.
Generating ideas and defining the problem are key steps in this approach, highlighting the importance of understanding and addressing the problem comprehensively.