Interviews/Texterviews with Akin Abraham
Interviews/Texterviews with Akin Abraham, VETERANSWERS Supporter.
Interviews are a crucial tool for employers to evaluate job candidates, offering insights into their skills, experience, and personality. Traditional interviews are usually conducted in person, but technological advancements have led to the rise of virtual interviews, including text interviews or “texterviews”. These are conducted via written text on email, messaging platforms, or specialized interview platforms.
Text Interviews: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Flexibility: Text interviews allow for flexible timing, accommodating candidates and interviewers in different time zones.
- Thoughtful Responses: Candidates can take their time to craft thoughtful responses.
- Reduced Bias: Text interviews may lessen bias related to appearance, accent, or body language.
Cons:
- Limited Non-verbal Cues: The absence of non-verbal cues can make it difficult to interpret body language and facial expressions.
- Potential for Miscommunication: Written communication can lead to misunderstandings as tone of voice and body language nuances may be lost.
- Lengthy Process: The time gap between responses can prolong the interview process.
Best Practices for Text Interviews
- Clear Communication: Set clear expectations and guidelines for the text interview.
- Structured Questions: Use well-structured questions to extract necessary information from the candidate.
- Timely Responses: Prompt responses help maintain the interview’s momentum.
Combining Text and Traditional Interviews
- Hybrid Approach: Some organizations combine traditional and text interviews for a comprehensive assessment of candidates.
Preparing for Text Interviews
- Technical Requirements: Ensure all parties have the required technology and platforms for seamless communication.
- Reviewing Responses: Thoroughly review and understand the candidate’s written responses.
Post-Interview Follow-up
- Feedback: Offer constructive feedback to candidates, even in text format, to highlight areas for improvement.
The choice between traditional and text interviews depends on various factors, including the job’s nature, the interviewer’s and candidate’s preferences, and the available technology. Each method has its own strengths and challenges, and the interview process’s effectiveness hinges on its alignment with the hiring organization’s objectives.
