In the wake of Covid-19 global pandemic, companies have opened their doors to remote interviews and assessments. Remote interviews and assessments involve the process of interviewing and evaluating a candidate without physically meeting them.
Rather than meeting in person, remote interviews and assessments are conducted online through video calls, phone calls or any other online medium. The concept of remote interviews and assessments is a beneficial process as it breaks the geographical barrier, saves time and money of both the interviewee and the interviewer, it also reaches a larger pool of candidates.
Lately, remote interviews and assessments are becoming more common day by day as the companies see these benefits. It is also important for the companies to optimize their platform for the same.
In This Article
Tricks for remote interviews and assessments
- Choose the Appropriate Tools
The first and the foremost step to conduct a successful remote interview is to choose the appropriate tools and platforms. There are many different options to choose from, for example Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Google Meet, etc. or your company’s recruitment software
A few factors that you may consider by choosing your platform could be availability, technology, cost and geographical area. Make sure to inform you of your interview beforehand about the technology or the platform you are supposed to use for your interview.
To ensure smooth functioning of the remote assessment you may check your technicalities beforehand such as voice, camera, background, connectivity, etc.
- Prepare your questions beforehand
Prepare yourself beforehand, it is important for you as the interviewer to be aware of your candidate, for example their experience, past achievements, their position at the company and what they bring to the table.
Remember, to make the questions specific and relevant, your questions must also give you an idea about the person’s skills and knowledge. Try to keep the questions clear and simple and do not go out of context.
- Develop a positive and professional environment
Creating a positive and professional environment nurtures trust and maintains a flow of communication between the interviewer and the candidate.
The candidate, in a positive environment, feels relaxed and is more reliable. Avoid being distracted during the interview and choose a well-lit area for the interview as it is considered a more professional and formal setting.
Dressing appropriately in formal clothes and being polite is also very important.
- Don’t jump right in the interview
As an interviewer, don’t abruptly start the interview, get to know the candidate a bit before you get on with the actual interview. You can start with a simple ‘How are you?’. Be polite, courteous and attentive as an interviewer and do not rush them.
- Include behavioral questions
Asking relevant and behavioral questions is of great importance as it helps you get to know their experiences, judge a candidate’s skills, and how they handle certain situations. You can ask situational questions or ask if they failed to meet a deadline in the past and how they handled the situation.
- Provide feedback
By the end of the remote interview and assessment, you may provide constructive criticism to your candidate, if necessary, for example you can tell them their areas of improvement or weaknesses (if any).
You may also inform the candidate about the hiring process of your organization and when they can expect a response.
You may also forward your feedback to the hiring team responsible for the organization’s e-recruitment program.
Following these simple steps can help you have smooth remote interviews and assessments.
How to prepare for remote interviews and assessments
- Punctuality
Remote interviews and assessments are usually conducted one-on-one. Make sure to log in beforehand so that you have time to overcome any last-minute technological obstacles.
Punctuality is very important, as the company may have shortlisted more than one candidate. Being late to your interview may also not be a great first impression on your potential boss.
- Professional setting
Remote interviews and assessments are a company’s formal hiring procedure. One should maintain the dignity of a hiring process and keep the surroundings professional, such as a well-lit area, dapper appearance, and clean background.
- Formal dress code
“Positive body language, posture and tone are fundamental for virtual interviews” says Indeed. E-recruitment is a formal process, and your dressing and appearance has a huge impact on it, as popularly said, “dress to impress”.
- Technological check
Conduct a technological check-in before the interview. Ensure the proper functioning of your equipment like mic, speaker, camera, etc. so as not to waste your interviewee’s time.
- Beforehand preparation
Interviews are like examinations you must prepare beforehand to succeed. Clear your mind clear your mind and prepare the necessary material such as portfolios beforehand.
Don’t learn your answers as they may appear scripted and rehearsed. Be confident and stern and take advantage of tools such as screen sharing.
- Counter question
It is always worth it to have all your doubts clear. Ask any important questions you may, for example company policies, what is expected from you, salary, work from home, etc. based upon the response of your interviewer, you can make an informed decision.