Provider recruitment is essential for any healthcare system. Without providers, hospitals and clinics would not be able to operate. One important step of the recruitment process is the interview. Of course, every organization is different with how they structure their interviews and what type of interviews they utilize, but are you prepared for successful virtual interviews?‌ Virtual interviews are convenient, especially for recruitment teams that work remotely or at different locations.

4 Things to Do Before a Virtual Interview

1. Familiarize yourself with the virtual platform. Virtual platforms can range in functionality, so it is crucial to test the platform and familiarize yourself with it before the start of an interview. Leadership or candidates may have questions about accessing or utilizing the platform and will look to you for solutions. You can even create a virtual platform white-page or cheat sheet to send candidates with their interview requests. The document should include information about accessing the platform, who to contact with issues, and frequently asked questions about the platform.
   
   
2. Ensure the interview team has the necessary equipment and software. Depending on an organization’s IT security, an IT administrator need to download the virtual platform. This is also the time to ensure all cameras and microphones work! Collaborate with your tech department to ensure all interview team members have working hardware.
   
   
3. Create processes that are like in-person interviews. Employers also need to create set processes for virtual interviews. You do not need to reinvent the wheel, but simply adjust current processes to work with the virtual platforms. Some platforms limit how many users can send out meeting requests or act as an administrator, so your team may have a go-to person for creating meeting links.
   
   
4. Do a test run with the interview team and go over interview expectations. Interview teams are often made up of a diverse cross-section of the organization. Before the interview date, set up a walkthrough of the platform with those that will be conducting the interview. Allow time for questions and go over virtual interview expectations. For instance, dressing professionally (even if they are working remotely), muting microphones when not speaking, and another interview etiquette. This prevents hearing that classic phrase, “I didn’t know I was supposed to do that.” A Texas lawyer made national news earlier this year for having a cat filter over his face when joining a virtual meeting, so make sure you and other interviewers are familiar with issues like that to assist team members or the candidate.

Looking for more recruitment tips? Check out our Employer Articles!