ABSTRACT
T HE interview represents a type of social interaction that hasboth theoretical and practical significance. Of theoretical inter-est is the observation that interviews usually reveal greater structure than other types of interactions such as conversation. The question-answer sequences and power/status differences between participants impose greater constraints on interactants' verbal, vocal, and nonverbal behaviors than is often evident in conversational settings. Practically, the interview is an interaction form instrumental to the management of significant daily matters: selection of employees, coping with personal problems, gathering information for professional services, and performance assessments.
