What is the term for a conversation where the applicant is unaware of being evaluated?

The correct term for a conversation where the applicant is unaware of being evaluated is known as a disguised interview. In this context, a disguised interview typically occurs in an informal setting, enabling the interviewer to gather insights about the applicant's behavior, personality, and suitability for a position without the individual feeling the pressure of a formal interview. This approach can reveal genuine reactions and characteristics that may not appear during a structured interview process.

In contrast, a mock interview is a practice session that simulates a real interview, often to help applicants prepare for upcoming interviews. A behavioral interview focuses specifically on past behaviors as indicators of future performance in similar situations, relying on structured questions about real-life experiences. Casual conversations are not inherently evaluative and do not have a structured purpose related to assessing an applicant's qualifications or fit for a role, making them distinct from the concept of a disguised interview.