What is a Virtual Interview and Why is it Becoming More Common?

Virtual interviews have become increasingly popular in the modern era of technology. It is a job interview that is conducted over the internet using video conferencing software, where the interviewer and interviewee are not physically present in the same location. Virtual interviews can take several forms, including live or pre-recorded, and one-on-one or multiple interviews.

In this article, we will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of virtual interviews, the importance of effective virtual interview conduct, and the future of virtual interviews.

Advantages of Virtual Interviews

1. Compliance with social distancing guidelines: The COVID-19 pandemic has forced companies to adopt new ways of conducting interviews, and virtual interviews are a convenient way to comply with social distancing guidelines while continuing with recruitment processes. Virtual interviews save time and money for both interviewers and candidates, as there is no need to travel to a physical location. This is particularly beneficial for companies looking to interview candidates who live in different cities or countries.
2. Time and cost savings: Virtual interviews provide more flexibility in the hiring process. Interviewers can conduct interviews at any time and from any location, as long as they have access to the internet. This makes it easier to schedule interviews around the schedules of both the interviewer and the interviewee, which can be especially helpful for candidates who are currently employed. Additionally, virtual interviews are more cost-effective than in-person interviews as they do not require the expenses associated with travel and accommodation.
3. Flexibility in scheduling: Virtual interviews are convenient for candidates. Candidates can conduct virtual interviews from the comfort of their own homes or offices, which can help reduce stress and anxiety. This can also help level the playing field for candidates who may not have access to transportation or who may have disabilities that make it difficult to attend in-person interviews. Additionally, virtual interviews can be scheduled at a time that is convenient for both the candidate and the interviewer, making it easier to accommodate busy schedules.
4. Ability to diversify the workforce: Virtual interviews enable companies to interview candidates from different geographical locations, which can help companies to diversify their workforce. This can be particularly beneficial for companies that are looking to expand their business globally. It can also help companies to reach out to underrepresented communities and provide equal opportunities to a wider range of candidates.
5. Technical skills assessment: Virtual interviews enable companies to assess the technical skills of the candidates more effectively. Companies can use virtual platforms to test candidates’ technical skills in real-time, which can be helpful for assessing candidates for roles that require technical expertise. This can save time and resources, as companies can quickly identify candidates who possess the required technical skills.
6. Reduction of carbon footprint: Virtual interviews help companies to reduce their carbon footprint. The need for travel is eliminated, which reduces the carbon emissions associated with travel. This is particularly beneficial for companies that are looking to adopt sustainable practices and reduce their environmental impact.

Disadvantages of Virtual Interviews

1. Technical issues: Technical issues such as poor internet connection or software problems can disrupt the interview process and cause delays. These issues can lead to frustration for both the interviewer and the interviewee, which can negatively impact the interview experience. It is essential for both parties to test their equipment and ensure that they have a stable internet connection before the interview.
2. Lack of personal interaction: Virtual interviews may lack the personal interaction that comes with in-person interviews, making it difficult for candidates to assess the workplace environment and culture. It is important for companies to ensure that virtual interviews are conducted effectively and that candidates are given the necessary information to assess the job role and company culture. Companies can use virtual tours or virtual meet and greets with potential colleagues to help candidates get a better sense of the workplace environment and culture.
3. Difficulty in assessing workplace environment and culture: Assessing the workplace environment and culture can be challenging in virtual interviews. It is important for companies to ensure that they provide candidates with a clear understanding of the company culture and the job role. Companies can use videos, virtual tours, and meet and greets with potential colleagues to help candidates get a better sense of the workplace environment and culture.

4. Difficulty in assessing non-verbal cues: Virtual interviews may make it difficult to assess non-verbal cues, such as body language and facial expressions. This can make it challenging for interviewers to assess a candidate’s communication skills and level of confidence. It is essential for interviewers to pay close attention to the candidate’s tone of voice and choice of words, as well as any other verbal cues that may provide insight into their level of confidence and communication skills.
5. Distractions: Virtual interviews can be subject to distractions, both for the interviewer and the interviewee. Distractions such as background noise, interruptions, and other distractions can disrupt the interview process and impact the overall interview experience. It is important for both parties to minimize distractions as much as possible by finding a quiet and private location for the interview.

Tips for Effective Virtual Interview Conduct

1. Test equipment and internet connection: Before conducting a virtual interview, it is essential to test the equipment and internet connection to ensure that they are working properly. This will help to prevent any technical issues that may disrupt the interview process.
2. Dress appropriately: Just because the interview is virtual does not mean that candidates should dress casually. Dressing professionally will help candidates to feel more confident and prepared for the interview.
3. Prepare for the interview: Candidates should prepare for virtual interviews as they would for in-person interviews. This includes researching the company, the job role, and preparing answers to commonly asked interview questions.
4. Find a quiet and private location: Candidates should find a quiet and private location for the interview to minimize distractions and ensure that they can focus on the interview.
5. Pay attention to body language and verbal cues: During the interview, candidates should pay attention to their body language and verbal cues. Maintaining eye contact, speaking clearly and confidently, and using appropriate hand gestures can help to convey confidence and professionalism.
6. Follow up after the interview: Candidates should follow up with the interviewer after the interview to express their gratitude for the opportunity and reiterate their interest in the job role.

The Future of Virtual Interviews

Virtual interviews are likely to become more common in the future as companies look for ways to streamline the hiring process and comply with social distancing guidelines. As technology continues to advance, virtual interviews will become more sophisticated, making it easier for companies to assess candidates’ technical skills and for candidates to get a better sense of the workplace environment and culture.

Conclusion

Virtual interviews have become a popular way for companies to conduct interviews in the modern era of technology. Virtual interviews offer numerous advantages, including compliance with social distancing guidelines, time and cost savings, flexibility in scheduling, the ability to diversify the workforce, and technical skills assessment. However, virtual interviews also have disadvantages, such as technical issues, a lack of personal interaction, and difficulty in assessing the workplace environment and culture. It is essential for companies to conduct virtual interviews effectively to ensure that candidates have a positive experience and can accurately assess the job role and company culture. As technology continues to advance, virtual interviews will become even more sophisticated, making them an increasingly popular option for companies conducting interviews.