Evasion tactics

Definition

Evasion tactics refer to strategies employed by individuals to avoid answering questions directly or to sidestep difficult subjects during interviews. These tactics can manifest in various ways, such as changing the topic, providing vague answers, or using humor to deflect attention. Understanding these tactics is crucial for effectively managing challenging interviews and ensuring that the interviewer can obtain the necessary information.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Evasion tactics can often indicate that the interviewee is uncomfortable or unwilling to discuss a particular topic, requiring the interviewer to adapt their approach.
2. Common evasion tactics include vague language, changing the subject, or even answering a question with another question.
3. Understanding and recognizing evasion tactics can help interviewers maintain control over the interview and guide it back to relevant topics.
4. Interviewers may use follow-up questions or rephrase inquiries to combat evasion tactics and elicit more straightforward answers.
5. Effective handling of evasion tactics can lead to deeper insights, as interviewees may eventually become more open when they feel challenged but supported.

Review Questions

• How can recognizing evasion tactics improve an interviewer's effectiveness during challenging interviews?
  • Recognizing evasion tactics allows interviewers to adapt their questioning style and maintain control of the conversation. By identifying when an interviewee is deflecting questions or avoiding subjects, an interviewer can choose to rephrase questions or use follow-ups to steer the discussion back on track. This not only helps in obtaining clear answers but also encourages a more open dialogue as the interviewee feels engaged rather than cornered.
• In what ways might body language play a role in identifying evasion tactics during an interview?
  • Body language is a crucial component in identifying evasion tactics because it often reveals the interviewee's true feelings about the questions being asked. Signs of discomfort, such as avoiding eye contact, fidgeting, or closed-off postures can indicate that someone is trying to evade a question. An interviewer who is attuned to these non-verbal cues can better assess when an individual is using evasion tactics and adjust their approach accordingly.
• Evaluate the importance of active listening when dealing with evasion tactics in interviews and how it contributes to successful outcomes.
  • Active listening is vital in dealing with evasion tactics because it enables the interviewer to fully understand both verbal and non-verbal responses from the interviewee. By paying close attention, an interviewer can detect subtle hints of avoidance and respond appropriately, either by pressing further on an issue or by changing their line of questioning. This skill fosters a trusting environment where the interviewee may feel more comfortable sharing information, ultimately leading to a more fruitful exchange and better insights.

Related terms

Deflection: A technique used to redirect the focus of a conversation away from a particular question or subject, often leading to unrelated topics.

Body Language: Non-verbal cues that can indicate discomfort or avoidance, such as fidgeting, avoiding eye contact, or crossing arms.

Active Listening: A communication technique that involves fully concentrating on what is being said, allowing the interviewer to pick up on evasion tactics and respond appropriately.