Why is open-ended questioning important in interviews?

Open-ended questioning is important in interviews because it encourages detailed responses from the interviewee. This type of questioning allows individuals to express their thoughts and feelings in their own words, providing richer and more nuanced information. Instead of eliciting short, specific answers that may be limiting or superficial, open-ended questions empower interviewees to elaborate on their experiences, perspectives, and insights. This depth of information can be crucial for understanding complex situations, gathering comprehensive intelligence, and making informed decisions based on the responses received.

In contrast, other types of questioning, such as closed-ended questions, can restrict the interviewee's ability to share important details and context. By fostering an environment where the interviewee feels comfortable to talk more freely, open-ended questioning leads to a more productive and informative interview process.