What is the primary purpose of a stress interview?

The primary purpose of a stress interview is to assess how candidates manage anxiety. In this type of interview, candidates are intentionally placed in challenging and uncomfortable situations to observe their responses under pressure. The interviewer aims to gauge the candidate's ability to think critically, remain composed, and react appropriately when facing stress, which can be important in high-pressure work environments.

This method provides insight into a candidate's emotional resilience, problem-solving skills, and overall suitability for roles that may involve significant stress or require quick decision-making. Unlike evaluating technical skills, gathering information about previous employers, or determining salary expectations, the stress interview focuses specifically on the individual’s psychological and behavioral responses in challenging scenarios.