With advancements in technology, remote interviewing has become a popular way of recruiting talent from across the globe. While it saves time and eliminates the need for physical presence, it also adds another layer of complexity to the hiring process. Recruiters can no longer rely on nonverbal cues, body language, or in-person interactions to assess candidates. Instead, they must be adept at reading resumes, conducting virtual interviews, and assessing cultural fit from a distance. Here are certain etiquettes that, if followed, will make the process smooth for both the interviewer and the interviewee.
Test Your Technology
Before you conduct a remote interview, it is crucial to test your technology. Make sure that your internet connection is stable, audio, and visual equipment are working correctly, and the software you use for the remote interview is set up and running smoothly. Check your webcam, microphone, and internet connection to ensure there are no technical issues during the interview.
Set a Professional Tone
Remote interviews can feel less formal than in-person ones, but it is essential to maintain a professional tone. Remember to introduce yourself and explain the interview process at the start of the interview. It is also essential to maintain eye contact and use language that is concise and to the point. The environment in which you conduct the interview can influence the interviewee’s mood and demeanor. Make sure you find a quiet, well-lit, and comfortable space to interview. Ensure there are no distractions, including background noise, pets, or people that may interrupt the interview.
Dress Professionally
It may be tempting to dress down for a video call, but the importance of dressing professionally cannot be understated. Dress as if you were going to an in-person interview. It shows respect and professionalism to the interviewee and sets an excellent tone for the interview. It will also make the candidate feel more at ease, knowing they are being interviewed by someone who takes their job, and their company, seriously.
Respect your interviewee’s time and schedule
Remote interviews mean you do not need space, yet wherever you are, you may need to choose a time that is most suitable to your interviewee. Therefore, before scheduling a remote interview, consider the capabilities and time zones of your interviewee(s). Convey to your interviewee’s specific dates and times that you and your team are available to ensure everyone is in sync. Be punctual. In fact, it is best to be a bit early, log in and be present in the chat room a few minutes before the actual interview is scheduled to start.
Prepare Your Questions
As the interviewer, prepare questions relevant to the job description and the company. When conducting a remote interview, it is essential to review the person’s resume in advance, so that you can ask specific questions. Get to know the candidate’s background to better understand their abilities, skills, and experience. Check for consistency in dates, triple check for spelling and grammar errors and pay special attention to achievements versus duties in prior work experiences. Use the resume as a starting point for inquiry, “Tell me more about…” or “Walk me through…” are great examples. It is beneficial to describe the job position, the duties, and your expectations before beginning the interview. This allows the candidate to know what they are applying for and how to tailor their answers.
Avoid Distractions
Distractions are unavoidable but minimize them as much as possible. Avoid eye contact with your computer, phone, or tablet (multitasking), as it indicates you are not engaged in the meeting. Better yet, keep your phone on silent mode or switch it off completely. Stay focused on the interview and the candidate’s responses.
Communication is Key
Remote interviews may feel less personal than in-person interviews. Therefore, it is crucial to over-communicate throughout the process. Explain the process briefly at the beginning of the call, letting the interviewee know who you are, the role you are interviewing them for, and the interview format. It is also essential to remember to give the interviewee ample opportunity to ask any questions they may have.
The Next Step
The interview is not over until both parties agree on the next step. Be sure to clarify when the candidate can expect to hear back from you and what the next steps will be. Thank the candidate for their time and reiterate your interest in their candidacy.
Follow Up
After the interview, follow up with a thank-you email. Express your appreciation for the candidate’s time and their insight into the position. Lastly, communicate the hiring process timeline and any next steps within a week of the interview.
Conclusion
Remote interviews are an efficient way to conduct a job interview without the extra expenses and leg work. It allows recruiters to connect with talented candidates from across the globe while eliminating geographical and physical boundaries. However, it is important to keep in mind the necessary etiquette for conducting remote interviews. Take some time to plan and prepare. Choose the right video conferencing tool, perform a technical checkup, and ensure a suitable environment. Be professional, respectful, and give the candidate all the time and attention they need. By mastering the art of remote interviews, you will be able to hire fantastic talent, no matter the distance.