What does the 80/20 rule in interviewing emphasize?

The 80/20 rule in interviewing emphasizes the importance of listening significantly more than talking during the conversation. This approach suggests that an effective interviewer should focus on the interviewee by listening 80% of the time while only speaking 20% of the time. This ratio allows the interviewer to gather valuable insights, understand the interviewee's perspective, and obtain in-depth information. Listening more than speaking helps build rapport and trust, making the interviewee feel heard and more comfortable to share relevant details.

Prioritizing active listening also helps in clarifying responses and encourages the interviewee to elaborate, thus enriching the data collected during the interview process. This technique is fundamental in various professional settings, including law enforcement, where understanding the subject’s narratives can provide essential context and information.