Use neutral, clear, and single-topic questions to avoid bias and confusion. Employ open-ended questions, balanced scales, and consistent wording. Pre-test questions with diverse reviewers, avoid assumptions and leading phrasing, and focus on behaviors, not traits, to gather honest, objective responses.
What Are the Best Strategies to Avoid Bias When Framing Interview Questions?
AdminUse neutral, clear, and single-topic questions to avoid bias and confusion. Employ open-ended questions, balanced scales, and consistent wording. Pre-test questions with diverse reviewers, avoid assumptions and leading phrasing, and focus on behaviors, not traits, to gather honest, objective responses.
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What Questions Should You Avoid to Reduce Bias?
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Use Neutral Language
Avoid emotionally charged or leading words when framing questions. Neutral language encourages honest and unbiased responses by not steering the interviewee toward a particular answer.
Avoid Double-Barreled Questions
Ensure each question addresses only one topic at a time. Combining multiple issues in a single question can confuse respondents and introduce bias in their answers.
Employ Open-Ended Questions
Frame questions that allow interviewees to express thoughts freely rather than choosing from preset options. Open-ended questions reduce the risk of imposing the interviewer’s assumptions.
Pre-Test Questions with a Pilot Group
Before conducting the actual interview, test your questions on a small, diverse group to identify any ambiguous or biased phrasing. Adjust accordingly to improve clarity and neutrality.
Be Consistent Across Interviews
Maintain uniformity in question wording and order for all interviewees. This consistency minimizes bias introduced through variations in how questions are posed.
Avoid Assumptions in Questions
Do not embed unverified assumptions in your questions. For example, avoid implying experiences or beliefs the interviewee may not hold, as this can skew their responses.
Use Balanced Scales for Rating Questions
When using Likert or rating scales, ensure they have an equal number of positive and negative options and include a neutral midpoint to capture genuine opinions without bias.
Limit Leading and Suggestive Questions
Refrain from phrasing questions that suggest a ‘correct’ or ‘desired’ answer. Instead, seek to understand the interviewee’s perspective without influencing it.
Involve Diverse Reviewers in Question Development
Have multiple people from varied backgrounds review your interview questions. Diverse perspectives help spot potential biases that a single individual might overlook.
Focus on Behavior and Experiences Not Personal Traits
Frame questions around concrete actions or experiences instead of personal characteristics. This approach reduces stereotyping and helps gather objective data.
What else to take into account
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