Which method is considered essential for assessing candidates during the selection process?

Interviews are considered an essential method for assessing candidates during the selection process because they provide an opportunity for direct interaction between the interviewer and the candidate. Through interviews, employers can evaluate not only the qualifications and experiences listed on a candidate's resume but also their personality, interpersonal skills, and cultural fit within the organization. This face-to-face or virtual interaction allows hiring managers to ask clarifying questions, probe deeper into a candidate's responses, and gauge their communication skills and enthusiasm for the role.

Additionally, interviews allow for the assessment of non-verbal cues and the ability to engage in a two-way conversation, providing insight that other methods, such as reference checks or written tests, may not fully capture. While other methods like online assessments and written tests offer valuable information about a candidate's skills and knowledge, interviews uniquely enable an exploration of a candidate's motivations, attitudes, and how they may handle real-world situations in the workplace. This holistic understanding is critical for making informed hiring decisions.