39% of employers would hire a worker without meeting them – Robert Walters

Almost two-fifths (39%) of employers would hire a professional without meeting them face-to-face, research from Robert Walters found.

Just 20% agreed virtual interviews were the most effective way to identify the best person for a job.

A further 45% said video interviews could work but had clear limits, while 25% believed face-to-face methods were better.

Employers said the main drawbacks were difficulty reading body language, cited by 36%, and getting a limited view of cultural fit, reported by 35%.

39% had difficulty reading body language, 28% struggled to build rapport with interviewers and 18% experienced technical problems.

Employers said convenience was the main benefit of virtual interviews, cited by 51%, followed by faster screening at 36%.

Lucy Bisset, senior director at Robert Walters North, said: “Before the pandemic, virtual hiring was only used in rare cases, such as for remote roles or positions based in different countries. 

“Today, despite doubts over the overall effectiveness of virtual interviews, four out of ten employers say they would hire someone they hadn’t met in person.