Before we delve into why the interview process might have changed, it is worth reflecting on why the change has occurred. There is no doubt that the pandemic forced companies to rethink their marketing strategies, and for some, digital plans were forced into fruition. With in-person events and traditional advertising avenues compromised, digital marketing took centre stage. E-commerce experienced a boom as consumers turned to online shopping, and social media engagement reached new heights. As a result, marketing professionals had to pivot quickly to meet these evolving trends.

One of the most noticeable adaptations in the post-pandemic marketing world is the shift to remote work. Many organizations realised the feasibility and benefits of remote work arrangements, even in industries that were traditionally office-based. Companies have since been on their own journeys to find a hybrid working balance and consequently, virtual interviews have become the norm.

With that in mind, we have put together some ideas that might help improve your interview process.

With remote work in digital marketing ever more common, it is essential that you can assess candidates’ tech proficiency. These assessments can come in a variety of forms, but o na most basic level you should be questioning the candidates on their software knowledge and create a process which allows you to assess their proficiency.

Adding to this is video conferencing skills and etiquette. Ask your candidates which softwares they are used to working with and how they prefer to collaborate. This will give you a sense of their remote collaboration skills.

With team dynamics evolving in remote setups, evaluating cultural fit becomes more challenging. That is why it is essential that employers meet candidates face to face at least once during the process. Don’t be afraid to include members of the team in the hiring process, and, if appropriate, invite potential employees to socialise with their wider team. It is vital that new hires understand the company culture, learn the boundaries and gel with their colleagues. Remote working can be isolating, therefore its essential that companies create a safety net around new joiners so that they feel supported.

The post-pandemic marketing landscape has revealed valuable lessons. Remote work and virtual interviews are here to stay, demanding adaptability and tech proficiency from both candidates and employers. As consumer behaviour continues to evolve, marketing professionals must remain agile and data-driven in their approach. The lessons learned from the pandemic have not only reshaped the marketing industry but have also redefined the skills and qualities sought after in marketing candidates. In this brave new world of marketing, the ability to navigate digital terrain, collaborate remotely, and stay attuned to consumer behaviour will be the keys to success. As hiring managers and marketing professionals continue to adapt, one thing is certain: the marketing industry will continue to evolve.