An interview is a structured conversation where one participant, the interviewer, asks questions, and the other participant, the interviewee, provides answers. It is commonly used to gather information, assess suitability, or evaluate a person's skills, character, or knowledge for a specific purpose such as a job, research, or investigation

. Interviews can vary in format and structure:

• Structured interviews have predetermined questions asked in a fixed order, often used to compare responses systematically

• Unstructured interviews are more open-ended and free-flowing without a fixed set of questions

• Semi-structured interviews combine both approaches, with a general plan but flexible questioning

• Other types include behavioral interviews, stress interviews, panel interviews, telephonic interviews, and video interviews, each serving different purposes and contexts

Interviews usually take place face-to-face but can also be conducted via telephone or video conferencing. They are a two-way communication tool where the interviewer collects information and the interviewee can also learn about the organization or topic

. In essence, an interview is a formal or informal meeting designed to obtain information, evaluate suitability, or explore topics through direct questioning and answering between two or more people