Interviews/Texterviews With Jude Nwawere, VETERANSWERS Member.
Let’s talk about interviews and text interviews, sometimes referred to as “texterviews.” Interviews are a common method used by employers to assess a candidate’s suitability for a job position. They provide an opportunity for the employer to learn more about the candidate’s skills, experience, and personality.
Traditional interviews are typically conducted face-to-face, but with the advent of technology, virtual interviews have become increasingly common. Text interviews, or texterviews, are a form of virtual interview where the communication between the interviewer and the candidate takes place through written text. This can happen through email, messaging platforms, or specialized interview platforms.
Here are some points to consider when discussing interviews and texterviews:
Advantages of Text Interviews:
Flexibility: Text interviews offer flexibility in terms of timing. Candidates and interviewers can respond at their convenience, which can be especially useful for candidates in different time zones.
Thoughtful Responses: Candidates have more time to formulate thoughtful responses compared to in-person or phone interviews. Reduced Bias: Text interviews may reduce bias related to factors such as appearance, accent, or body language. Challenges of Text Interviews:
Limited Non-verbal Cues: Text interviews lack the non-verbal cues present in face-to-face interactions, making it challenging to gauge body language and facial expressions. Potential for Miscommunication: Written communication can be prone to misinterpretation, and nuances may be lost without tone of voice and body language.
Lengthy Process: Conducting a text interview may take longer due to the time gap between responses. Best Practices for Text Interviews: Clear Communication:
Clearly communicate expectations and guidelines for the text interview to both the interviewer and the candidate. Structured
Questions: Use structured and well-thought-out questions to gather the necessary information from the candidate.
Timely Responses: Encourage timely responses to maintain the flow of the interview process. Combining Text and Traditional Interviews:
Hybrid Approach: Some organizations use a hybrid approach, combining both traditional and text interviews to assess candidates comprehensively. Preparing for Text Interviews:
Technical Requirements: Ensure that both parties have access to the necessary technology and platforms for smooth communication. Reviewing Responses: Take the time to review and understand the candidate’s written responses thoroughly. Post-Interview Follow-up:
Feedback: Provide constructive feedback to candidates, even in a text format, to help them understand areas of improvement. The choice between traditional and text interviews depends on various factors, including the nature of the job, the preferences of the interviewer and the candidate, and the available technology. Each method has its advantages and challenges, and the effectiveness of the interview process depends on how well it aligns with the goals of the hiring organization.
