What type of interview is referred to as a situational interview?

A situational interview is specifically designed to assess a candidate's ability to handle scenarios that are relevant to the job for which they are applying. This type of interview presents hypothetical situations that might occur in the workplace, and candidates are asked how they would respond. It allows interviewers to gauge critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and the potential for making sound decisions under pressure, which are crucial aspects of many roles.

This method moves beyond simply evaluating a candidate's past experiences or technical skills, as it focuses more on how they would approach future challenges. By examining a candidate's thought process in response to job-related situations, employers can gain valuable insight into how that individual might perform in the role, helping to ensure a strong fit for the organization.

In contrast, interviews that focus solely on past work history, technical skills, or personality assessments do not provide the same specific insights into a candidate's situational judgment and adaptability in real-world circumstances.