Professional in Human Resources (PHR) Practice Exam

What distinguishes an open question from other types of questions?

1. It allows for a yes or no response

2. It typically leads to limited responses

3. It begins with words like what, where, why, when, or how

4. It is designed to guide the interviewee

The correct answer is: It begins with words like what, where, why, when, or how

An open question is distinguished from other types of questions primarily by its ability to elicit detailed responses and encourage conversation. It is specifically structured to prompt more elaborative replies rather than simple, restricted answers. By starting with words such as what, where, why, when, or how, open questions invite the interviewee to share their thoughts, experiences, and feelings in greater depth. For instance, asking "What are your thoughts on the new policy?" invites a comprehensive discussion rather than a straightforward affirmative or negative reply. In contrast, questions that allow for only yes or no responses, or those designed to limit the scope of answers, do not facilitate the same level of dialogue. Such attributes help to emphasize the open nature of these questions, fostering a more engaged and informative exchange between the interviewer and the interviewee.