What distinguishes unstructured interviews from structured interviews?

Unstructured interviews are characterized by their informal and flexible nature, which allows for a conversational approach rather than adhering to a strict question-and-answer format. This method enables the interviewer to explore topics in depth based on the candidate's responses, fostering a more natural dialogue that can reveal insights about the interviewee’s experiences, values, and personality.

In contrast to structured interviews, which follow a predetermined set of questions to ensure consistency and facilitate comparisons across candidates, unstructured interviews prioritize spontaneity and the flow of conversation. This can lead to a richer understanding of the interviewee. While both types of interviews serve distinct purposes, the informal and adaptive quality of unstructured interviews is their defining feature.