Here, we’ll talk you through how to reschedule a job interview in a way that ensures that you don’t get it cancelled all together.
Let them know in advance
Unfortunately, there are times when you can’t make it to an interview. Whether you have an emergency, or you simply can’t get the time off from your current job.
These situations can also happen just before your interview, leaving you having to cancel it on short notice. In general, it is better to give as much notice as possible.
This way it’s fairer to the respective employer and gives them enough time to organise another date that’s convenient for both of you and doesn’t clash with other candidates.
It also demonstrates your ability to be punctual with last minute changes, as well as being empathetic with the employer’s need to plan interviews around their hectic schedules too.
These are important skills in the workplace and this could be an opportunity for you to show that you’re capable of demonstrating them.
Still sound keen
This is the most important thing to do when rescheduling your interview. When you have to contact your interviewers with the news, it’s so easy to seem distant and uninterested in the position when telling employers why you can’t attend.
This could be down to the anxiety that comes with having to do this, or the reasoning behind your rearranging playing on your mind.
It’s amazing how understated the importance of our tone of voice is. It can often have a mismatching tone to what you are saying, meaning you can say one thing and others hear something else.
Someone who sounds and acts positive often receives positive results. Regardless of your circumstances, try to sound like you’re still interested in the position.
It may also be the first time the employers have heard you speak, so transfer the same enthusiasm you showed when writing your CV and your cover letter at the beginning of your application.
Negotiate where necessary
The main cause of having to reschedule a job interview is being unable to get the time off from your current job. This is such a delicate subject for all involved.
On one hand, it’s your dream job and you can’t pass up the opportunity. On the other, you don’t want to hurt your present employer’s feelings.
This is where negotiation comes in. Find an alternative date and time that’s convenient for you, your current employer and your interviewer. But, whatever you do, don’t use a false excuse to get the day off your current role.
You could even say to your past and present employers that you’re always honest and would never dream of ‘pulling a sickie’ to go for an interview (more brownie points).
Keep it professional
Professionalism is at the heart of the world of work. It’s everything you do to make sure you do your job correctly and know how to behave in the workplace. So, why would you not be professional about changing your interview time?
Contact the interviewer via email and on the phone, to make sure they’ve received the message as soon as possible. They may not receive it until the start of their working day.
It’s also important to remember your manners while changing your interview date. It’s a good idea to follow up a successful reschedule with a thank you email. This should explain how you appreciate them accommodating your needs with their own hectic schedules.
The interviewer will be very grateful for this. After all, it shows that you’re aware of the company’s work ethic and what tasks they have to perform. This could also be a sign that you have done your research, demonstrating further your strong interest in the position.
Ready to reschedule a job interview?
Having to reschedule a job interview is something nobody wants to do. But sometimes we have no choice. If you do have to resort to that, follow this advice and you may still be in the running for your dream role.
If you need more interview advice, why not check out our article on what to expect in a job interview.
About the author: Emma Gullon is a guest blogger for CV-Library. As well as writing advisory blogs here, she also has her own blog, Curious Reviews, in which she writes reviews on theatre shows in the Yorkshire area.
