What is the primary focus of a structured interview in recruitment?

The primary focus of a structured interview in recruitment is uniformity in questioning. This type of interview is designed to ensure that all candidates are asked the same set of predetermined questions in the same order. This consistency allows for a more objective evaluation of each candidate's responses, making it easier to compare applicants fairly based on their qualifications and abilities. Structured interviews minimize bias and improve the reliability of the assessment process by reducing variations that can arise from interviewers’ personal styles or behaviors.

In contrast, the spontaneity of responses is less emphasized in structured interviews, as they follow a specific format. While an applicant's educational background is certainly relevant, the structured interview's primary intent is not to explore educational history in depth, but rather to assess competencies and fit for the role through standardized questions. Additionally, while gathering an in-depth personal history may be useful in some contexts, it is not the main focus of a structured interview, which prioritizes comparability and consistency in the evaluation process.