Several meetings, engagements and work-related activities are being carried out virtually. With the COVID-19 pandemic that caught the world unawares in the past year, remote work became a household name. Not only have people begun to work remotely, but recruitment processes have also been taken to the internet space.
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According to statistics, 86% of organizations are conducting remote interviews. While this practice has gained ground in recent times, some organizations still find it challenging to successfully carry out hitch-free remote interviews. In this article, I will be highlighting a few ways to conduct a successful remote interview. So, hang on!
It is not debatable that preparation is the key to achieving success in any venture. The same applies in this context. Get the platform you will be using for the interview ready. Whether it is Zoom or Google Meets, or Skype, run tests to make sure you have a stable network. Properly review the candidate’s resume and note questions to ask. Get your hiring team ready. Let them know the questions to be asked and what you plan to achieve in the interview. Clear out your workspace and keep it as tidy as possible. You wouldn’t want the prospective employee to perceive you as a joke. Conduct a technology check some minutes before the interview, to ensure the webcam, microphone and speaker are all functioning properly.
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Review Your Hiring Process
Before embarking on a remote interview, it is possible that you and your hiring team have been conducting the traditional interview. It is pertinent that you review that process. Assess the actions taken which can be incorporated into the remote interview and those that need not be present. From communication style to organization of questions, know what you have been doing that will work and what will not. Ask your team for their valuable inputs too, and strategize on how to optimize the hiring process.
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There is no need for any form of rigmarole. Face-to-face interviews often come with informal discussions and a bunch of other stuff that could be time-consuming. However, while conducting a remote interview, be specific on what you are looking for in the candidate. Go straight to the point. This will ensure you are maximizing your time and that of the candidate. When sending the interview invite, you can send a detailed schedule to the candidate and fellow interviewers. This will help you stay on track when the interview commences. Ensure your interview questions address the candidate’s skills and competencies which are relevant to the position.
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Communicate Your Company Culture
Conducting a remote interview implies the candidate will not get to see your office space or meet with your team. In some cases, you might not even have a physical workspace. The question becomes how to let the candidate in on what your company is essentially all about. You need to take time to introduce your company culture to the candidate. Let them know your core values. Also, clearly state your expectations from employees and what characterizes your chosen candidate. Since the candidate will not be able to experience the company culture first-hand, it is important you make extra efforts to paint the picture.
While many organizations will want to stick with the traditional interview process, the remote interview is definitely a way to go. To a great extent, it saves you and the candidate the stress and resources involved in conducting and attending a physical interview. Indeed, there are challenges that come with it, such as technical issues and miscommunication of ideas. I believe with these tips; you will be able to grow from where you are now in your knowledge of remote interviews to a higher level.
Featured Image Source: Rally Recruitment Marketing
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This article was first published on 2nd November 2021
chidiogo-akaelu
Chidiogo Shalom Akaelu holds a degree in English and Literary Studies, from the University of Nigeria. She is a freelance writer, editor and founder of Loana Press, a budding online publishing outlet.
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