Comparing In-Person vs Virtual Recruiting Appointments

When we first launched our recruiting appointment setting service, virtual appointments were almost unheard of unless the brokerage itself was virtual. But once Covid hit, that all changed. Now, virtual appointments are common even when the brokerage has one or more physical locations.

Both in-person and virtual recruiting appointments have their advantages and disadvantages. One isn’t necessarily better than the other. So, if you’re wondering whether you should do in-person, virtual, or both, here’s a comparison between them.

In-person recruiting appointments:

·      During in-person recruiting appointments you can show off your office, introduce potential recruits to your agents and staff, and show off your culture.

·      Many brokers say they get a better feel for potential recruits when they meet them face-to-face and, as a result, they get more joins (even when they meet somewhere other than the office).

·      Some agents will only accept in-person recruiting appointments either because they want to get face-to-face or because they aren’t technologically savvy.

·      You can “woo” potential recruits by buying them meals/drinks or by taking them to local events (although this isn’t common and is typically reserved for top producers).

 Virtual recruiting appointments:

 ·      The show-up rate is better for virtual appointments because potential recruits can do them from anywhere.

·      Some agents are concerned about being seen with a broker from a different brokerage. Virtual recruiting appointments offer those agents complete confidentiality.

·      Virtual appointments are easier to schedule because both you and the potential recruit can block off an hour on the calendar without needing to factor in drive time.

·      You can share your screen during a virtual appointment, making it easy to demonstrate your tech, digital marketing, training materials, etc. If you have a PowerPoint recruiting presentation, it’s also easier to present via screen sharing than in-person, especially if the in-person recruiting appointment takes place outside the office.

 You can, of course, always offer agents the option of an in-person or virtual recruiting appointment and let them decide. If you decide to go that route, just make sure you have your recruiting materials in both physical and digital form so you’re prepared for both types of appointments.