The return of in-person interviews: Finding balance in a post-Zoom world

After years of almost all interviews being virtual, something interesting is happening in recruiting. Companies are rediscovering the power of in-person connections, but they’re not throwing away their virtual options just yet – for good reason.

Think of your interview process like a first date. You might start with a quick video chat to ensure basic compatibility before investing in dinner. The same logic applies to modern recruiting. Virtual interviews excel at those initial connections – the getting-to-know-you phase where both sides are exploring possibilities. They’re perfect for those first conversations when candidates are still at their current jobs, juggling childcare, or living across the country.

But there’s something irreplaceable about meeting in person, especially as you near decision time. It’s in those unscripted moments – the casual chat with potential teammates in the break room, the energy of the office environment, the subtle non-verbal cues that Zoom can’t quite capture – where you get the fullest picture of fit and potential.

The smartest companies are crafting interview processes that mirror their actual work environments. If your team works in a hybrid model, why not interview that way, too? Start virtually for initial screenings, then bring candidates on-site for final rounds. This approach isn’t just practical – it gives candidates a genuine preview of how they’ll actually work.

The future isn’t about choosing between virtual and in-person interviews. It’s about knowing when each format serves your purpose best. Recruiters are treating the interview format as another tool in their toolkit, not a one-size-fits-all solution. They’re also doing something even smarter: giving candidates a choice when possible. This simple offer of flexibility doesn’t just make candidates’ lives easier – it tells you something valuable about their preferences and working style.

The best interview is the one that helps both sides make the right decision, regardless of format. Sometimes that’s a Zoom call. Sometimes it’s a handshake. Usually, it’s a bit of both.