Which interviewing technique can promote an interviewee's comfort?

Demonstrating understanding and empathy is a key interviewing technique that can significantly enhance an interviewee's comfort. When an interviewer shows that they understand the interviewee's feelings and perspective, it creates a supportive atmosphere that encourages open communication. This empathetic approach helps build rapport between the interviewer and the interviewee, making the latter feel valued and more willing to share information.

Empathy enables the interviewer to connect on a personal level, which can alleviate anxiety and foster trust. Such an environment is crucial for obtaining accurate and honest responses, as the interviewee feels safe and less defensive. The ability to show understanding can also encourage interviewees to elaborate on their thoughts and feelings, leading to a more productive interview process.

In contrast, high-pressure tactics can increase stress and anxiety, potentially leading to decreased cooperation. Holding back emotional responses may come off as unapproachable, which could further hinder the interviewee's comfort. Sticking rigidly to a question script can limit the interaction's flexibility, making it harder to adapt to the interviewee’s needs and emotions, thereby missing opportunities to foster comfort and understanding.