The COVID-19 situation is definitely unusual. It feels surreal and never-ending, but it is nonetheless necessary to remain proactive and plan for the return to reality. Fortunately, hiring new employees can be done 100% virtually. There isn’t much technology can`t do, and human beings have an exceptional capacity to adapt and a high degree of flexibility.
Technology Can be Crowned Queen
Much of the hiring process was already being done remotely. Now, it is the face-to-face interviews that must now be conducted virtually. However, it is fairly easy to use free and accessible video conferencing platforms to meet candidates, Many corporationswith national offices have been using videoconferencing in this process for several years. Technology allows you to meet without having to travel. It even allows you recording interviews!
From Office to Home: Our Skills Follow us Everywhere
During face-to-face interviews, we analyze how candidates present themselves, their answers, their non-verbal language and their personality. All this can be done virtually. It is simply a matter of adapting to the context. For example, if there are two recruiters on the call, they can share different roles: one can oversee non-verbal body language and ensure that this aspect is properly evaluated. The video interview can also be reviewed at a later time in order to focus on specific elements and can be transferred to a colleague who was not available. Skills required to analyze a candidate’s profile remain the same, regardless of proximity.
Humans are Flexible, Adaptive and Understanding
Everyone is affected by this crisis. Managers, recruiters and candidates alike are all in the same boat when it comes to the precarious future. Once this uncertainty is accepted, the natural human capacity to adapt kicks in. If you’ve talked to a few candidates in the last few weeks, you have undoubtedly noticed everyone understands the hiring process must be modified, that the start date is uncertain, and some conditions could change without notice, depending on government recommendations. We simply have to be realistic and transparent in our responses. This reassures candidates and helps build a relationship based on trust.
People are Available
We are receiving more and more resumes and the majority of candidates are available for interviews over the phone or by videoconference. Most of them have more time, a schedule that’s more flexible and the capacity to talk without fear of being interrupted by a colleague.
Continuing the hiring process is possible if conducted in a proactive, professional and adaptive manner. You just have to believe in it.
