Virtual vs In-Person Job Interviews: What are the Benefits?

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5. Virtual vs In-Person Job Interviews: What are the Benefits?

With software such as Skype, Microsoft Teams and Zoom readily available at our fingertips and a global pandemic preventing us from leaving the house in 2020, the traditional method of in-person interviews quickly shifted to online, virtual interviews. Employers were able to connect with candidates from anywhere making the interview process more efficient, convenient and less-costly for both employers and candidates. Just like hybrid working, virtual interviews will likely become the new normal, modernising the hiring process for employers. 

So, what are the benefits of virtual, online interviews?

• Interviews can take place from any location. Removing the need for travel can help save money and time, speeding up the interview process.
• Removing the need for travel will likely result in a higher number of applicants and a more diverse talent pool.  
• Interviews can be daunting for candidates, virtual interviews allow candidates to meet employers from the comfort of their own home and allow them to use resources around them and make notes throughout.

What are the benefits of in-person interviews?

• Face to face interviews allow employers to better evaluate a candidate, make a fair judge of character, make personal connections and engage with the candidate in-person.
• Less risk of disruption due to technology technology failing, internet connection cutting out or software glitching as is often the case with online interviews. 
• Candidates often get to meet with their employer in the environment of which they will be working. In-person interviews allow candidates to get a better feel of the company culture and engage with their employer at the same time. 

There are benefits and drawbacks to both methods of interviewing and more often than not employers will use a combination of the two throughout the screening and hiring process. Kickstarting the hiring process with virtual interviews can allow for better time management and efficiency, perhaps screening all candidates in the time they might have only been able to meet with one in person. Meeting with candidates in person towards the final stages of interview will allow for better engagement with candidates as employers can get a better sense of their skills and character, as well as candidates being able to meet the employer in what may be their new work environment. 

The subjectivity of the interview process is entirely dependent on the hiring business and the employer, both methods provide for differing purposes.

Are you unsure of which method best suits your business? We can help support you with recruiting new talent! Email us at [email protected] or call us on 01656 336097 and we will be happy to help!