A majority of Americans, 70%, prefer meeting in-person to virtual when interviewing for a new job, according to the latest American Staffing Association Workforce Monitor released today. In comparison, 17% favor video calls and only 9% prefer audio-only calls.
“Job seekers may prefer to have the option to work remotely, but they still want to make their first impressions in person,” said Richard Wahlquist, ASA president and CEO. “Unfortunately, far too many (67%) feel the need to modify their normal appearance in some way prior to a job interview.”
The report also found that 74% of Hispanic Americans are significantly more likely than their white counterparts (65%) to feel the need to modify their appearance before taking part in job interviews.
Other findings included:
- 33% of Black Americans reported feeling the need to shave their facial hair before an interview, compared with 25% of Hispanic Americans and 22% of white Americans.
- 19% of Hispanic Americans and 17% of Black Americans felt the need to cover their tattoos, compared with 10% of white Americans.
- 18% of Hispanic Americans and 14% of Black Americans felt compelled to take out their body piercings, compared with 9% of white Americans.
- Men (39%) are more likely to feel the need to get a haircut or change their hairstyle for an interview than women (23%).
The survey was conducted online within the US by The Harris Poll on behalf of ASA from Oct. 27 to Oct. 31 among a total of 2,019 adults.