What should the interviewer do if the interviewee appears hostile?

When an interviewee appears hostile, it is crucial for the interviewer to prioritize safety and control over the situation. Being alert and seeking backup if necessary is the most appropriate response because it ensures the interviewer can handle the situation in a secure and effective manner.

Remaining aware of the interviewee's demeanor allows the interviewer to assess potential risks and determine if intervention is needed. In potentially volatile situations, having backup can provide additional security and support, ensuring that the interview can proceed or be de-escalated safely. This approach aligns with protocols for managing confrontational encounters, which emphasize maintaining a safe environment for both parties involved.

The other choices involve either ignoring the behavior, which can lead to escalating tension, challenging the aggression, which may provoke further hostility, or attempting to overpower them verbally, which could exacerbate the conflict. Each of these responses can compromise the safety of the interviewer or the integrity of the interview process itself. Hence, staying alert and seeking backup is the best course of action to manage a hostile situation effectively.