In 2021 we are facing a new wave of challenges, both personally and in our profession of HR.

Remote interviewing was a challenge that I hadn’t faced before. It was a little daunting at first, but after a few attempts, I started to work out a system that helped the process run much more smoothly.

I’ve written this article to share my experiences in both remote and in person interviews, to ensure you find the right candidate for your role.

 

How to conduct a remote interview?

 

Do a Dry Run

Due to the increase in demand for video conferencing platforms as a result of people working from home due to the Covid-19 pandemic, there is a huge demand on video services.

It’s important to do a dry run of the technology you will use during the remote interview to ensure is working correctly before the D-day.

In case you experience glitches, ensure to inform the candidates that you will reschedule the interview rather than risk giving a bad first impression due to technical difficulties.

 

Pick a video conferencing platform

When conducting remote interviews, ensure to use a reliable video conferencing platform.

These are platforms that are widely used by companies around the world, to conduct both interviews and other personnel business.

Before the D-day, let your candidates know which application to download to their computer.

 

Schedule an appropriate time and location

Choose an appropriate time that both parties are comfortable to ensure there will be and no interruptions.

It’s advisable to choose a location that you have control of your surroundings. For example, a private office in a co-working space, or your own home.

Prepare in advance and ask the following questions:

  • Does this room have a strong internet connection?
  • Does the candidate have all the interview information including date, time, and links?
  • Is all of the necessary equipment working, plugged in, and turned on?

 

Your environment

Set the stage by removing distracting clutter and put in place a suitable backdrop.

It’s important to ensure there is enough light in the room to be able to see both parties during the interview.

It’s recommended using either natural or neutral light. Lastly, ensure it doesn’t cause glare on your screen.

 

Use a headset

During the interview, use a headset whether you’re using a phone or a laptop. It will vastly improve the quality of the audio.

 

Break the Ice

During the interview, observe the following

  • Ensure to eliminate outside noises that may interfere with the interview.
  • Start with introductions and outline the agenda. It’s advisable to ask the candidate whether they have any questions before proceeding.
  • Remember to look into the camera as a way to keep eye contact.
  • When responding, give a few seconds before speaking to accommodate the time the candidate needs to think of a response. This also compensates for any delays in the internet connection.

 

How to conduct (post-pandemic) face to face interviews

When the world gets back to the new normal, face to face interviews are likely to become frequent one again.

The following are tips to use during the one on one interview.

 

Prepare Questions

You should prepare a list of questions that will act as a guideline for the interviewer.

It’s recommended for each question you ask, ensure to follow up with 2 potential questions depending on the candidate’s response.

The interviewer should ask open-ended questions to get the candidate to explain further.

Don’t ask too many questions at the same time because the candidate may miss answering some of your key questions, or simply skip over them.

 

Try behavioral questions

When an interviewer asks behavioral questions like “Tell me about a time when you had to deal with a difficult co-worker. How did you get along with them?”

Here the interviewer wants the candidate to discuss their traits in detail because every job seeker will tell you they are organized, quick thinkers, and can multi-task.

The recruiter should focus on relevancy and how quickly the candidate answers the questions.

 

Be patient

It’s important to give the candidate a chance and allow their qualifications and response to create an opinion. Rather than allowing the initial impression to cloud perceptions.

Therefore, interviewers should take their time and get to know the candidate during the interview.

 

Pay attention and listen

The interviewer should pay attention, be engaged, and listen to the candidate’s responses during the interview.

Prepare a list of questions before the day of the interview.

This to avoid thinking of what to ask the candidate at the same time, the candidate is responding and telling you about their experiences.

 

Bottomline

Enjoy the process, whether in person or remote. A smile will also help the candidate at ease and relaxed in this challenging environment.

Remember, this is an exciting process and a chance to develop a new relationship!