Interviews have changed. A lot.
What used to be a formal meeting in a boardroom is now just as likely to take place over a video call from your kitchen, a phone chat during your commute, or a coffee meeting at a local café. As the modern workforce becomes more flexible, so does the hiring process.
At Impact Recruitment, we wanted to know which format job seekers actually prefer. So we asked our LinkedIn community:
What’s your go-to interview style?
Video call: 37%
In-person: 33%
All of the above: 24%
Phone: 6%
Over 300 professionals responded, providing us with a genuine insight into how candidates perceive the interview process today.
Video Interviews Take the Lead
Topping the poll at 37 percent, video calls are now the most preferred format. They strike a balance between convenience and professionalism. Candidates appreciate the comfort of interviewing from a familiar space, while still being able to make eye contact, read expressions, and connect in a meaningful way.
For many, video interviews also eliminate the stress of travel and timing, making for a smoother and more confident experience.
In-Person Remains a Strong Second
Close behind, 33 percent of respondents still prefer in-person interviews. For those who value face-to-face interaction, meeting in person allows them to build rapport more naturally and gain a genuine sense of the workplace. It can also help candidates evaluate a company’s culture and team dynamics firsthand.
While it may not always be possible, many job seekers still appreciate the opportunity to connect in person at some point in the hiring process.
Flexibility Matters More Than Ever
A quarter of voters selected “all of the above.” This reflects a growing willingness to be flexible and meet employers wherever they are. Candidates understand that interview formats vary based on location, role, and company policies. Many now expect a hybrid approach, with different formats used at different stages of the hiring process.
The key for them is clarity. When candidates know what to expect and how to prepare, they’re more likely to feel confident and engaged regardless of the format.
Phone Interviews Still Have a Place
Only 6 percent of respondents chose phone interviews as their top choice. While less popular, phone interviews still serve a purpose, especially in early screening stages. They’re fast, efficient, and easy to schedule, which makes them a valuable tool for recruiters and hiring managers. That said, many candidates feel phone interviews can lack the personal connection and non-verbal cues that help build trust.
What This Means for Job Seekers
Being comfortable with multiple formats is a strength. Each one has its own expectations, and preparing accordingly can help you make a strong first impression:
For video calls, test your tech, find good lighting, and keep your background tidy.
For in-person interviews, plan ahead, arrive early, and dress in a manner that matches the company’s culture.
For phone interviews, speak clearly, take notes, and minimize background noise.
Staying adaptable shows professionalism, preparation, and respect for the process.
What This Means for Employers
Your interview format says something about your company.
Being flexible and candidate-friendly can help you stand out in a competitive hiring market. Offering multiple interview options, clearly outlining expectations, and showing respect for the candidate’s time can help create a positive experience that reflects well on your brand.
It also helps widen your talent pool by accommodating candidates who may not be able to attend in person due to location, accessibility, or scheduling challenges.
Interviews are no longer one-size-fits-all. Candidates today want flexibility, clarity, and the opportunity to connect in a way that feels natural and respectful. Whether it’s in-person, over Zoom, or by phone, what matters most is how both sides show up.
At Impact Recruitment, we support candidates and employers through every step of the process. No matter the format, our goal is to create interviews that lead to great conversations and even better hires.
Want to have your say in our next poll? Follow Impact Recruitment on LinkedIn to join the conversation and stay in the loop on the latest hiring trends.