Job interviews can be a nerve racking experience for both the interviewee and the interviewer, particuarly when the interview isn't taking place face-to-face. Often, it’s the interviewee that is regarded as the person under pressure. However, the interviewer has an important role to play in ensuring that they get the best out of the candidate, whilst also selling the benefits of their organisation to their prospective employees.
In this day and age, there are many different ways for you to be able to conduct interviews without having to be face-to-face with a candidate. Hosting interviews via Skype is particuarly common and lots of hiring managers are now even using FaceTime as a popular option.
Prior to the interview, be sure to send candidates full details of how their video interview will commence; including the date, time, login details and URLs if necessary.
Knowing as much as you can about the candidate, their skills and experience prior to the interview will help to create a successful and meaningful interview. Try to set aside at least 20 – 30 minutes to review their CV and make a note of relevant questions that you’d like to ask them.
In order for you to be able to ask the right questions during the interview, you really need to understand the job vacancy that you’re recruiting for so that you can target the right questions and shape them to get the best out of the candidate and their experience.
‘You were born with two ears and one mouth for a reason.’
To have a fluid conversation, it’s important to make the candidate comfortable - which is even more important when conducting an interview via video. A good way to do this is to start the interview with an informal approach. Maybe ask a question about something away from the interview itself. Some might find it ‘small talk’ but it’s amazing how a few simple questions such as ‘How are you today?’ or ‘What have you got planned for the weekend?’ (if the interview is nearer the end of the week) can make somebody feel less nervous.
‘You were born with two ears and one mouth for a reason.’ – Epictetus. The power of listening can not be underestimated, make sure you give the candidate enough time to respond to your question and to share their experience to demonstrate competency. If you talk over them, or don’t let them finish an answer, it can be off putting to the candidate.
If you experience a continued technical glitch during the interview like a weak connection or interference, politely mention it and reconnect to avoid the candidate missing any crucial information. Remember to test your equipment well in advance as well as immediately before the interview begins.
As much as the job interview is an opportunity for the candidate to sell their skills and experience to the interviewer, it’s also your opportunity to elevate your brand and organisation to them. The chances are that the candidate may be interviewing for a number of roles so if you like them and want to offer them the role, then try to show the positives about working with you, your team and your organisations.
Looking to hire your next top talent? Submit a vacancy now to get in touch with us
We know from our research that professionals value career progression when assessing whether to move jobs. How you communicate career progression to professionals could determine the success of your search for the best candidates. We surveyed job seekers and hiring managers, and here are our tips fo
Read MoreAgile working environments are driving innovation, adaptability, user experience and destroying silos. We speak to Rhys Meaclem, Developer at Westpac, to understand the key principles of Agile and what the benefits of agile practices are to an organisation.What is Agile? An organisation’s agility is
Read MoreAs we approach 2025, artificial intelligence (AI) is not just a buzzword – it is becoming a critical part of hiring processes and career development. AI is rapidly reshaping the hiring landscape, revolutionising how organisations identify, assess, and onboard talent, while also placing a spotlight o
Read MoreCome join our global team of creative thinkers, problem solvers and game changers. We offer accelerated career progression, a dynamic culture and expert training.