Unstructured Interview

Unstructured interview, also called non-directive interview, refers to an interview concept without any set format in which questions are nor predetermined so the lack of structure enables the interviewer to ask questions which come to his/her mind on the spot.

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Unstructured interview definition

Unstructured interview, also called non-directive interview, refers to an interview concept without any set format in which questions are nor predetermined so the lack of structure enables the interviewer to ask questions which come to his/her mind on the spot.

This type of interview process resembles an open minded, informal, friendly conversation.

Advantages and disadvantages of unstructured interview

Unstructured interview encourages maturity and open type of communication. It also develops a personal sense of responsibility. Since the interviewee feels relaxed he/she might disclose relevant information that would under stress be forgotten.

The unstructured interview also provides the possibility to wander off the subject, to share too much unrelated information which can lead to excluding specific information the interviewer wants/needs to know. They also take more time than a structured interview.