What advantage does establishing rapport have during an interview?

Establishing rapport during an interview serves as a fundamental aspect that enhances the entire interviewing process. When a rapport is built, the interviewee is more likely to feel comfortable and trust the interviewer, which fosters an environment conducive to open communication. This improved communication allows for smoother questioning, as the interviewee may become more willing to share information and provide detailed responses.

A strong rapport can also reduce anxiety and defensiveness, which often impede the flow of information. As the interviewee becomes more engaged in the conversation and feels understood, they are more inclined to elaborate on their answers, leading to richer, more nuanced insights. This dynamic significantly improves the overall effectiveness of the interview, allowing the interviewer to gather more relevant information, assess credibility, and ultimately achieve the interview's objectives more efficiently.

While the other choices address various aspects of interviewing, they lack the comprehensive impact of enhanced communication and interaction that rapport provides. Establishing rapport is not a guarantee of a confession, does not inherently lead to a reduction in the time required for an interview, nor does it restrict the scope of questions to only those pertinent to the case. Instead, it broadens potential disclosures and can significantly enhance the quality of the information provided.