The landscape of the workplace has changed across the globe because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Not only the workplaces are taking measures to ward off infections, but even the employees in almost all industries now think of health and safety concerns before making up mind to rejoin their offices or when looking for a new job. Many companies have allowed the majority of their employees to work from home, while others haven’t.
The interviewers now while the hiring process will face new questions related to the pandemic from the candidates. The questions regarding the COVID-19 should be considered as safety concerns and interviewers should be well-prepared to answer them. Here are a few questions your hiring team should prepare for during interviews about COVID-19:
How does the company plan to keep employees safe?
This may be the most common question and the candidate wants to get an assurance on the safety measures. You must explain your company’s safety policies and procedures. Assure the candidate that he/she will be working in a healthy environment.
Will it be compulsory for employees and visitors to wear masks in the workplace?
If the candidates ask this question, then they are not only concerned about their safety, but also how well this protocol is implemented.
Are social distancing plans in place?
Explain the plans of social distancing and how it is implemented within the organization - between the colleagues and also with external visitors and customers.
Will employees be notified if a co-worker tests positive for COVID-19?
The biggest concern is what if I come in contact with a co-worker tests positive for COVID-19. And, everyone understands what precautionary measures to take in such an event. If your organization is transparent on this issue and inform the number of positive COVID-19 test results, then not only it will add the trustworthiness but also reassure the applicant.
Will I be allowed to work from home in case of any contingency?
You should be ready with a contingency plan and also the policies related to the remote working. The candidates who ask this are probably concerned about the company’s reaction if they were to contract the virus.
We suggest that even if there are no such questions, then also the interviewer should share the COVID-19 safety measures in place with the candidates probably at the end of the interview session.
