Paris, 29 January 2024 – Interviews are a key phase of the selection process to find the ideal candidate. In France, but also in other parts of the world, a new method of approaching this process, called "job dating", is spreading. In this context, the platform CVapp was interested in how it works and the reasons why, in France, this new method is taking hold in the world of work.
Inspired by the well-known practice of speed dating, job dating involves organizing lightning-fast interviews with several candidates, around 10-15, alternating interlocutors. Each interview generally lasts 5 to 15 minutes and takes place simultaneously. In this way, both parties can know in an instant if they are faced with the right choice, because the key word is efficiency. Employers appreciate this new practice which allows them to save time and speed up the process. It is for this reason that Pôle Emploi, which has become France Travail since January 2024, has expressed its favor for this method of selecting candidates.
Pôle Emploi promotes this new form of interview in multiple regions and has already organized several job dating events in 2023. In fact, a ball was organized by Pôle Emploi Rhône with the aim of breaking down the formal barriers between recruiter and job seeker. But other events are organized depending on the demand and interest of companies and candidates. For example, a job dating in the aeronautical sector took place in September 2023 in Méaulte (Somme) thanks to the association of Pôle Emploi (France Travail), Airbus Atlantic and Les Entreprises s'engagent. Around thirty companies and more than 300 job seekers were present. In January, another job dating called “A Café against a CV” was organised, this time by Lidl in Rennes. The main objective of this operation was to meet the candidates directly over a coffee and to inform them about the proposed jobs.
Among the advantages of job dating, we can mention its effectiveness in facilitating short meetings between candidates and recruiters, speeding up the selection process. The limited time structure encourages conciseness, allowing you to quickly analyze candidate skills and abilities. Furthermore, it thus reduces the recruitment time, thus optimizing the company's resources. However, some think that job dating may favor selection based on immediate impression, overlooking crucial qualities that are not evident in a short-term interview. Its effectiveness may also vary depending on the sector and positions sought.
Participating in a job dating requires careful preparation to maximize the chances of success. First of all, it is essential to conduct thorough research on the company, understand its culture and values. Before the event, it is advisable to prepare by drawing up a complete and detailed CV. Furthermore, it can be useful to write a short and incisive presentation, highlighting your skills and objectives. During the meeting, it is important to maintain a positive attitude and ask questions to the recruiters, thus demonstrating everyone's interest and professionalism. After the event, it is advisable to send an email thanking you for the opportunity and reiterating your interest.