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Online and hybrid interviews

Page updated 10 January 2022

As of November 30th 2021, the University Management Team (UMT) have agreed that the Chairperson of the Board of Assessment (BOA) will now have the discretion to decide if interviews are held in-person or virtually (via Zoom or similar technology).

The UMT strongly recommend that the same approach is used for all candidates i.e., all interviews are in-person, or all interviews are held virtually/online to ensure consistency and an equitable approach for all candidates.

The prevailing public health advice must be considered, and the Chairperson will be responsible for carrying out a risk assessment in advance of the interviews.

The following guidance will help with assessing the risk, but this is not an exhaustive list, and the Chairperson may wish to consider other risk factors when conducting the assessment.

  • Consider the current Public Health advice.
  • If persons are travelling from abroad to attend the interview consider the requirements for international arrivals into Ireland on the (opens in a new window)gov.ie website. 
  • Ensure the interview location is big enough to facilitate social distancing for the Board Of Assessors (BOA) and candidates.
  • Ensure there is sufficient ventilation without compromising confidentiality for the candiate. For example, where it may be necessary to have windows open.
  • Masks do not need to be worn if physical distancing of at least 2m and adequate ventilation is in place. However, individuals may choose to wear a mask. 
  • Identify who will be responsible for sanitising shared chairs, tables etc. in both the waiting area and the interview room between candidates.
  • Please ensure the BOA are aware they may be considered close contacts in the event that a member of the BOA later tests positive and that this may implications for unvaccinated persons who, if considered to be close contacts, will be required to get tested and restrict their movements for 14 days. This may change to “in accordance with current public health guidance”. 

Please review the Coronavirus (Covid 19) information section of the SIRC website or further information.

  • Consider what technology will be used in the event of a hybrid approach where some candidates or members of the BOA are in person whilst others are online. 
  • Multiple laptops in use in one room on a zoom call can result in feedback which can be distracting for board members and candidates and result in a poor experience for the candidate.

  • Confirm with HR if a hybrid approach will be accommodated by the chair.  This could through necessity (candidate has to self-isolate at short notice) or candidate may prefer to attend via zoom.
  • Determine whether staff from the school or unit are on campus and available / needed to meet candidates attending in person at the interview location.
  • Consider what approach the board will take if an interview suffers technical problems like loss of network / sound / video.

  • Use the mute button while you are not talking
  • Look into the camera while speaking
  • Choose a professional background image or blur your background
  • Find a brightly lit room, preferably with a window in front of you rather than behind you
  • Pick a quiet space where you won’t be interrupted by callers, deliveries etc.
  • Silence or switch off your phone.
  • Turn off notifications such as emails, chat or instant messages

UCD Human Resources

Roebuck Offices, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland.
T: +353 1 716 4900 | E: hrhelpdesk@ucd.ie | Location Map(opens in a new window)