[graphememes]

Unfortunately interviews are brief, the point of this isn't to add pressure its to relieve it. Silence for too long in such a short period introduces pressure. Letting them use me as a sounding board we can create a connection that opens dialogue and allows ideas to flow.

The whole point is to make them comfortable and that takes the highest priority. Being able to read the individual and react to them is key, not everyone is the same, hence why there are a multitude of responses, and the ones given are just a starting point.

[sundvor]

Ah, I read you now, thanks. I may have reflected on one interview that went particularly badly, being somewhat reminded of it. But with the extra information, that is a great approach if I understand you correctly - especially the silence adding pressure part, which is absolutely true.

I.e. if stuck at something, even if seeming trivial, it might pay (to go back or have a chat around it, even guide him/her a bit so as, etc) to get the candidate loosened up and feeling safe which should then yield better responses after.