It's no secret that the way we work has drastically changed in recent years. Thanks to the pandemic, many companies have had to shift to remote work, and some have even adopted hybrid models. With this shift, virtual job interviews have become more common.
While virtual interviews have their advantages, they can present challenges when it comes to gauging a company's culture. A company's culture plays a crucial role in your job satisfaction, so it's important to get a sense of it during the interview process.
In this blog post, we'll explore some ways you can do just that.
Do Your Research
First and foremost, research the company. Take a deep dive into the company's website, social media accounts, and employee reviews on sites like Glassdoor. This can give you an idea of the company's values, work culture, and employee satisfaction. It's also a good idea to research the company's industry and competitors to get a broader perspective.
Observe the Interviewer's Behavior
During the interview, pay attention to the behavior of the interviewer. Are they friendly and engaging, or formal and distant? The interviewer's behavior can be a good indicator of the company's culture. If they're friendly and engaging, it's likely that the company values collaboration and teamwork. If they're more formal and distant, the company may have a more hierarchical culture.
Pay Attention to the Interview Format
The format of the interview can also give you insights into the company's culture. A highly structured interview with pre-determined questions may indicate a more formal and hierarchical culture. Conversely, a more conversational and open-ended interview may indicate a more relaxed and collaborative culture.
Ask Questions
Don't be afraid to ask questions about the company's culture during the interview. Ask about the company's values, work-life balance, and employee development programs. You can also ask about the company's response to the COVID-19 pandemic and how they support their employees during these challenging times. These questions can give you a sense of the company's priorities and how they treat their employees.
Take a Virtual Tour
Many companies offer virtual tours of their office spaces. If the company you're interviewing with offers this option, take advantage of it. This can give you a sense of the company's physical space and how they prioritize employee comfort and well-being.
Follow Up with Current Employees
If you have connections within the company, reach out to them for insights into the company's culture. Ask about their experience working for the company and what they think sets it apart from others in the industry. Current employees can provide valuable insights into the company's culture and what it's like to work there.
Virtual job interviews may present some challenges, but it's still possible to gauge a company's culture during the process. They may have become the new norm due to the pandemic, but they offer a unique opportunity to assess company culture. By paying attention to the subtle cues and non-verbal communication of interviewers and other employees, as well as asking thoughtful questions about the company's values and priorities, you can gain valuable insights into the work environment you may soon become a part of.
It is important to remember that company culture is not just a buzzword; it can make or break your job satisfaction and ultimately your career success. Taking the time to assess company culture during the interview process can help ensure a good fit and set you up for long-term success. So, don't be afraid to ask questions, observe closely, and trust your instincts when it comes to assessing company culture in a virtual interview. A company's culture is an important factor in your job satisfaction, so it's worth taking the time to get a sense of it before accepting a job offer. Good luck!
If you are looking for more personalized advice, don't hesitate to reach out to us at contact@quardev.com!
