Conducting a Virtual Interview

Virtual interviews, including telephone interviews, can be an effective method of assessing a candidate’s competencies as they relate to the position for which they are being considered. As a result of the current COVID-19 outbreak, managers are encouraged to follow best practices when scheduling virtual interviews in place of in-person interviews.

Best Practices for Virtual Interviews

  • Be mindful that not every candidate will be able to access virtual interview technology and may need to reschedule or determine an alternate method for interviewing.
  • For bargaining unit positions, please consult with your Talent Acquisition Partner to talk through these practices to ensure contractual obligations are met and maintained.
  • Test your technology prior to the scheduled interview time.
  • Questions must be the same as what you would have asked in an in-person interview.
  • Keep detailed notes.
  • If you plan to video chat with a candidate, make sure you’ve allowed them to prepare by letting them know they’ll be on camera.
  • Be mindful and accommodating of potential audio and/or video delays.

Interviewing by Phone

  • If possible, call the candidate from your work phone number.
  • If teleconferencing with a search committee, remind committee members to mute their lines when not in use to ensure smooth communication. Review helpful tips on hosting a Zoom meeting, including muting and unmuting participants.

Interviewing Online via Zoom or Skype

Yale’s preferred video chat tool is Zoom. If you do not have a Zoom account, please visit the Zoom website to set one up. Virtual Private Network (VPN) connection is not required.Video chat is also available through Skype for Business. Those with a Yale email account already have a Skype for Business account and can access it through their desktop. VPN connection is not required. For support with Zoom or Skype for Business, contact the ITS Help Desk.