1. an employment interview in which the interviewee is presented with a problem that must be solved. The idea is that such an approach will reveal the applicant’s analytical, creative, and problem-solving abilities under pressure. See also patterned interview; structured interview; unstructured interview.

2. an interview that is focused on specific job-related problems, with the aim of working with the interviewee on reaching constructive and mutually acceptable solutions to deficits in performance. This technique is used both with supervisors and with other employees.