"Brian, do we do hybrid?" Pichai asked.
Ong said candidates and Google employees have said they prefer virtual job interviews because scheduling a video call is easier than finding a time to meet in available conference rooms. The virtual interview process is about two weeks faster, he added.
He said interviewers are instructed to probe candidates on their answers as a way to decipher whether they actually know what they're talking about.
"We definitely have more work to do to integrate how AI is now more prevalent in the interview process," said Ong. He said his recruiting organization is working with Google's software engineer steering committee to figure out how the company can refine its interviewing process.
"Given we all work hybrid, I think it's worth thinking about some fraction of the interviews being in person," Pichai responded. "I think it'll help both the candidates understand Google's culture and I think it's good for both sides."