How To Leverage Synchronous and Asynchronous Communication in Hiring

With the recent prevalence of remote hiring, hiring managers and recruiters are exposed to a number of unique challenges — as well as new tactics to add to their tool kit like synchronous and asynchronous modes of communication. 

Some obvious challenges that come with physical distance is that hiring managers can’t always rely on traditional forms of communication, like phone calls. Differences in time zones further complicate the matter by asking managers to be more flexible with scheduling, even during off hours. Fortunately, remote-ready tools and messaging platforms provide alternative forms of communication that skirt around these issues.

With remote work becoming an increasingly popular norm, it’s likely no surprise to say that remote hiring isn’t going away anytime soon. This is why it’s important for hiring managers and recruiters to familiarize themselves with different synchronous and asynchronous communication methods.

When to Use Synchronous and Asynchronous Communication in Hiring

If you’re a hiring manager or recruiter, the gears are probably already turning for you. Synchronous communication is great for having extended conversations with candidates and lets you get a better understanding of their character and mannerisms. It’s the go-to communication method for qualifying and vetting candidates towards the end of the hiring process.

Asynchronous communication provides for more convenience and is better suited for exchanging information at the beginning of the hiring process, like exchanging resumes or scheduling meeting times. Importantly, asynchronous communication is often more polite and sensitive to time zone differences, helping to avoid awkward situations such as calling applicants at night or too early in the day.

Most importantly, you can use a candidate’s ability to communicate with you via asynchronous communication to gauge how well they work remotely. If you find yourself struggling to interact with someone via email and you notice they make lots of formatting mistakes, chances are they may not be the best at communicating with project managers via Slack.