Alina Elbers, Moritz Keil, Kai Externbrink

• Purpose So far, there are several approaches of measuring the Dark Triad traits, but still all of them are personality questionnaires with at least questionable usability for applied contexts such as Human Resource Management. The purpose of the study is the development of a structured interview with the aim of measuring the Dark Triad in a rather qualitative way that increases social validity for the respondents. Design/Methodology/Approach/Intervention In the present study, 15 executives from the telecommunications industry were interviewed on their personal evaluation of management success and derailment. Afterwards, their personality traits of the Dark Triad were measured with the help of the Short Dark Triad Scale. Subsequently, the data from qualitative and quantitative research were examined for correlations using the mixed-method approach. Results The results of the mixed-method approach showed a statistically significant correlation between the Short Dark Triad Scale and the ratings for narcissism, Machiavellianism and subclinical psychopathy in the Dark Triad interview. Limitations Replicating the results in a bigger sample and a deeper investigation of the criterion-related validity as well as an integration of multiple raters can provide more confidence in our results. Research/Practical Implications Structured interviews allow the measurement of personality traits in a more convenient way especially in personnel selection and development processes. Identifying subclinical traits in leadership candidates can, e.g. prevent management derailment. Originality/Value The present study advances the measurement methods of the Dark Triad.