How to Ask for a Different Interview Time
How to reschedule a job interview
You've scheduled your interview in for days or even weeks away. But what happens if you need to break it to your interviewer that you can no longer make it?
Maybe you're ill and you just can't get out of bed. Perhaps your kids are unwell and there's no one to look after them. Or, it could be that you're just having second thoughts about that career path, whether it's a job in sales or a job in engineering!
Regardless of your reason(s), you must inform your interviewer and reschedule the job interview as soon as possible. You'll need to ensure that you address them in the nicest way possible, without completely ruining your chances.
How can you do this? We explain in more detail, below.
Give a good reason
First of all, you need to make sure you have a good enough reason; you're not feeling well, you can't get there, or you have an emergency. Don't think you can reschedule it just because you can't be bothered to attend. This will look bad on you!
After all, you may as well go for the experience. This means that when your dream job comes along, you know what to do because you've done it before.
It's always best to be honest if you need to reschedule a job interview. An elaborate excuse, which doesn't sound truthful, will only result in red flags for your interviewer.
Contact the interviewer as soon as possible
Secondly, it's better to inform them earlier, rather than later. It's likely they'll have a tightly packed schedule, so the sooner you inform them, the more likely you'll be able to re-arrange a time that conveniently suits you both.
But what's the best way to contact them? Ultimately, it depends on the circumstances. Ideally, try to avoid calling the office unless it's the day before, or the day of, the interview.
The employer is probably super busy and you don't want to catch them at a bad time. Emailing allows them time to read your email at their own convenience.
On the plus side, its also less daunting writing them a message over email than speaking to them directly on the phone, a win-win! If you're struggling with where to start, check out this template:
Dear [Name of interviewer],
I am really looking forward to have an opportunity to discuss the role of [job title] with you.
Unfortunately, I [state and explain your reason]. I would therefore like to reschedule an interview with you if possible to a later date. I am available [give three of four dates and times over the next few weeks].
I apologise for causing any inconvenience. However, I am really enthusiastic about this opportunity and I hope I will be able to reschedule this interview at a time that is also convenient to you.
Thank you so much for your understanding.
Kind regards,
[Name]
Again, the sooner you send it the better. It's important to notify them professionally and politely, in order to keep your reputation in tact!
Don't panic!
Bear in mind, they're only human. They'll understand if you have a valid reason why you can't attend. But, only reschedule a job interview if you really have to. You don't want to come across as unreliable.
Thank the interviewer
Once you've received a response from the interviewer confirming that they're happy to reschedule the job interview, make sure you reply to them as soon as possible.
It's important to show them how grateful you are and that you're still keen. Putting it off for a couple of days may leave you at risk of being 'forgotten'. It may also come across that you've lost interest in the position. Which might not be the case!
Be organised. If you can't do it right away, set yourself a reminder to make sure you get round to responding. Again, the sooner the better.
Ready to reschedule a job interview?
Remember to stay true to your reasons, avoid exaggeration and lies. It's inevitable that they'll find out and it's better to be safe than sorry.
Take the above advice on board and you'll be able to reschedule a job interview with ease and without upsetting the employer. Good luck!
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How to Ask for a Different Interview Time
Source: https://www.cv-library.co.uk/career-advice/interviews/how-to-reschedule-a-job-interview/#:~:text=I%20am%20really%20looking%20forward,over%20the%20next%20few%20weeks%5D.