The Face to Face Interview

Face to face interview, what’s that? It's hard to remember a time before virtual meetings became the new normal. But if we have learnt anything in recent years, it’s that pretty much everything can change overnight. 

As we’ve seen a growing number of hiring managers lean back into in-person interviews, now is the perfect time to brush up on the do’s and don’ts — whether you’re the one doing the interviewing or the one hoping to land the job.

Tips for Hiring Managers

Face-to-face interviews are your moment to not only assess a candidate but to sell your business. In today’s job market, top talent expects more than a job description — they want to feel excited about your company.

Here’s how to make the most of your in-person meetings:

• Be Prepared: It sounds basic, but it’s often missed. Take time to properly review the candidate’s CV well in advance — not five minutes before they arrive.
• Structure Your Questions: Have a clear plan. A consistent approach across all interviews ensures a fair and thorough process.
• Sell the Opportunity: Candidates are assessing you just as much as you’re assessing them. Be ready to talk about company culture, benefits, progression opportunities, and what makes your team worth joining.
• Create a Positive Experience: Even if you’re not extending an offer, you want every applicant to walk away with a great impression of your business.

💡 Think of it as matchmaking — people want to feel a connection. Show candidates why your company is the right match.

Tips for Candidates

The return to in-person interviews might feel daunting — but it’s also your chance to shine beyond the screen. Here’s how to make a strong impression:

• Plan Your Journey: Arriving late due to train delays or traffic won’t set the right tone. Aim to be early, not just on time.
• Dress the Part: First impressions count — and that includes how you present yourself. Smart, professional, and polished always wins over quirky or casual.
• Do Your Homework: Google the company, read recent news, check out their LinkedIn — there’s no excuse for being unprepared. Show that you’ve done more than just skim the job ad.
• Keep It Professional: No matter your past experience, now’s not the time to bad-mouth previous employers. Stay positive and forward-looking.
• Ask Smart Questions: Don’t default to “Have I answered everything?” Instead, show interest in the company’s direction, the team, or why your interviewer enjoys working there.

🛑 Avoid asking about sick days, holiday allowances, or flexible hours too early — there's a time and place for that, and it’s usually not in round one.

🔍 Face-to-Face Interview Pros & Cons

✅ Benefits:

• Stronger personal connection: Body language and facial cues help build rapport and are easier to read.
• Deeper insights: It’s easier to read between the lines and ask follow-ups.
• Environment check: Candidates can get a feel for the workplace and team culture.
• Longer, more meaningful conversations: In-person interviews often allow for more in-depth discussions.

❌ Challenges:

• More time-consuming: Coordinating schedules and travel takes more effort.
• Cost to candidates: Travel can be expensive, especially if they’re unemployed or relocating.

Hybrid Interviewing: The Best of Both Worlds?

If you're hiring, consider a hybrid approach:

• Start with virtual interviews to screen candidates quickly.
• Then, invite top contenders for an in-person round to dive deeper.

This method saves time, reduces scheduling bottlenecks, and ensures you're only meeting the best-matched applicants in person.

Ready for Your Next Step?

Looking for your next role in travel? Browse our latest travel jobs and see if your next opportunity is just a click away.

Hiring for your team? We’d love to support you in finding the right match.

📞 Call us on 01732 808313

📧 Or email: executive@jaynepeirce.co.uk