Which strategy helps reduce problems with the selection process?

Which strategy helps reduce problems with the selection process?

• A. Use unstructured interviews
• B. Use structured interviews
• C. Do not conduct reference checks
• D. Involve only one interviewer

Answer: (B)

Using a structured interview approach is the strategy that reduces problems in the selection process. By asking every candidate the same predetermined questions and scoring responses with a clear rubric, the process becomes consistent and objective. This consistency means interviewers evaluate each candidate against the same criteria, which improves reliability (results that can be repeated across applicants) and validity (the likelihood that interview performance predicts job success). It also minimizes the influence of personal biases or preferences of any one interviewer, leading to fairer, more defendable decisions. Having predefined questions and a scoring system makes it easier to compare applicants directly and to document how decisions were reached.

Unstructured interviews tend to vary from candidate to candidate and rely more on subjective impressions, which can introduce bias and inconsistency. Skipping reference checks removes a valuable step that helps verify past behavior and performance, increasing the risk of making a poor hire. Involving only one interviewer concentrates judgment in a single perspective, heightening bias and reducing reliability.