Are you looking for a new way to conduct your interviews?
Get out of your own office and explore the world of off-site meeting spaces. With a variety of venues available, you’ll be able to find a space that is both comfortable and conducive to interviewing.
Why leave your own office?
Conducting interviews outside of your own office can be a game changer. There are a number of reasons why you may want to consider doing so. Firstly, an off-site meeting space can be a more convenient location for both you and the interviewee. It can be less stressful for candidates to arrive at a neutral location, rather than navigating their way to a new office building or a part of town they’re unfamiliar with. Additionally, it can be helpful to give candidates a fresh look at your company outside of the context of your usual work environment.
Another reason to consider interviewing off-site is that it can be a great opportunity to inject some energy and inspiration into the interview process. Taking a break from the usual surroundings can help to bring a renewed sense of focus and engagement to both parties involved. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t like to have a change of scenery every now and then? It can be a welcome respite from the day-to-day routine.
Finally, conducting interviews outside of your office can signal to the candidate that you are innovative and willing to take risks. This can help to create a sense of excitement and a positive perception of your company right off the bat. By doing something unexpected, you can immediately set yourself apart from other employers in the candidate’s eyes. In short, it can be a great way to shake up the interview process and get candidates excited about the possibility of working with you.
How to pick the right space
When it comes to selecting an off-site location for your interviews, there are a few factors to consider. Doing your research is key, so make sure to scout out a few different options before making your final decision. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:
- Accessibility: Choose a location that is convenient for both you and the interviewee. Is it close to public transportation or highways? Is there ample parking available?
- Atmosphere: Consider the atmosphere you want to create for your interview. A coffee shop may be too noisy and distracting, while a hotel conference room might be too formal and stuffy. Think about what kind of vibe you want to project and choose a location accordingly.
- Cost: Of course, budget is always a factor. Make sure to choose a space that fits within your budget but doesn’t compromise on quality. You don’t want to come across as cheap or unprofessional.
- Amenities: Think about what amenities you will need for the interview. Do you need access to Wi-Fi, projectors, or conference call capabilities? Will you be serving food or drinks? Make sure to choose a location that can accommodate your needs.
- Privacy: Lastly, make sure the location provides a level of privacy that allows for an effective interview. You don’t want to be interrupted or overheard by other customers or guests. Consider booking a private room or reserving a table in a quiet corner.
Taking the time to carefully choose the right off-site location for your interview can help set the tone for a successful and productive conversation.
What type of questions work well in this setting
When conducting interviews in an off-site meeting space, it’s important to adjust your questioning approach to match the environment. One area of consideration is the remote aspect of the interview, which can impact how candidates answer certain types of questions. Here are some questions that tend to work well in this setting:
- Behavioural questions: Questions that require the candidate to discuss past experiences can be effective in an off-site interview. These questions allow the candidate to draw from real-world examples and give the interviewer insight into their decision-making abilities.
- Open-ended questions: Rather than asking simple yes or no questions, opt for open-ended questions that require the candidate to provide more detailed responses. This type of questioning encourages dialogue and helps establish rapport with the candidate.
- Hypothetical questions: In an off-site interview, it can be challenging to gauge a candidate’s problem-solving abilities in real-time. Hypothetical questions allow the interviewer to assess how the candidate would approach certain scenarios, without requiring a physical demonstration.
- Goal-oriented questions: These questions focus on the candidate’s professional aspirations and what they hope to achieve in their next role. Asking goal-oriented questions shows that the interviewer is invested in the candidate’s success and can lead to a more productive conversation.
How to make sure the interviewee is comfortable
When you’re conducting an interview in an off-site meeting space, it’s important to make sure that the interviewee is comfortable and at ease. After all, they may feel a bit nervous or unsure about the new setting.
One of the easiest ways to put the interviewee at ease is by providing amenities that make them feel at home. Make sure there is a source of drinking water nearby, and consider offering tea or coffee as well. This can help them relax and feel more comfortable.
Another way to ensure that the interviewee is comfortable is to create a warm and inviting environment. Consider the lighting in the room, and try to keep it soft and welcoming. Add some plants or other decor to help make the space feel more homey and comfortable.
Finally, it’s important to remember that the interviewee may have some questions or concerns about the off-site setting. Make sure that you’re available to answer any questions they may have and that you’re proactive in addressing any concerns. By doing so, you’ll help the interviewee feel more at ease and confident during the interview process.
How to make a good impression in an off-site interview
Making a good impression in an off-site interview is just as important as it is in any other setting. However, because you’re outside of the office, there are a few additional factors to keep in mind.
First, be mindful of the environment and the people around you. If you’re in a public space, like a coffee shop, try to find a table that’s secluded and away from any distractions. Make sure the interviewee is comfortable and has everything they need, such as a drink or a snack. Be courteous to any other patrons and keep your voices down so as not to disturb them.
Second, dress appropriately. While you may not be in the office, it’s still important to look professional. Dress in business attire and make sure you’re well-groomed. Your appearance will convey a sense of professionalism and show the interviewee that you take this opportunity seriously.
Third, be punctual. This is particularly important if you’re meeting in a public space, as you don’t want to take up valuable space for longer than necessary. Arrive a few minutes early and make sure everything is set up and ready to go. This will show the interviewee that you respect their time and are reliable.
Fourth, be prepared. Make sure you have everything you need for the interview, including any documents or notes you’ve prepared ahead of time. Be familiar with the questions you want to ask and any information you want to convey about the position or the company.
Finally, be engaged and present. Give the interviewee your full attention and listen carefully to their responses. Take notes if necessary, but don’t let them distract you from the conversation. Show that you’re interested in what they have to say and that you value their time.
In summary, making a good impression in an off-site interview requires some additional effort, but it’s well worth it. By being mindful of your environment, dressing appropriately, being punctual, being prepared, and being engaged, you can convey a sense of professionalism and show the interviewee that you’re serious about this opportunity.
Conclusion
Overall, using off-site meeting spaces to conduct interviews can provide numerous benefits for both the interviewer and the interviewee. It can help to break up the monotony of the traditional interview process, and create a more relaxed and comfortable atmosphere for both parties. By selecting the right space and asking the right questions, you can ensure a successful and productive interview that leaves a positive impression.
So, next time you’re planning to conduct interviews, consider breaking the mold and opting for an off-site meeting space to shake things up.
Your candidates might just thank you for it.