Need to Postpone Your Interview? Follow These Rules…

Finally, you got a job interview call after numerous efforts! But unfortunately due to some unavoidable reasons, the situation demands you to ask the employer for rescheduling the interview at some other time or even any other day. Of course, nobody wants to offend the employer by asking him/her to postpone or reschedule the interview. This is like taking a leave from office when an important meeting is due with a valuable client. Therefore, in such a critical situation the first question that every job seeker thinks about is “Is it fine if I ask the employer to reschedule the interview?” Well, it is, provided you initiate the request in a right manner that doesn’t close the doors for future job vacancies with the employer.

Asking your hiring manager to reschedule or even cancel the interview includes three logical steps-

(1) Giving a proper reason,

(2) Calling the recruiter or sending an e-mail

 (3) Following up

1. Giving a Genuine Reason

You should better have a genuine excuse for rescheduling the interview if you do not want to smudge on your job opportunity. It is always recommended to communicate the reason the very first moment any real emergency pops up instead of waiting for the final day of the interview.

Like timely communication is important, giving a proper excuse is equally crucial; otherwise it may ruin your possibility of being called up again by the employer. Needless to say that some absurd or unprofessional excuses must be avoided, such as:

“I am not prepared because I forgot that the interview was scheduled for today.”

“I couldn’t sleep last night due to the interview stress, hence I am unwell to attend it today!”

“I don’t have a conveyance facility today, so please can you reschedule for some other day.”  

If you are rescheduling due to real problems like sudden illness, family emergency or sick children at home, be tactful in your approach by informing the employer without much delay. After conveying the situation that calls for canceling the interview, do not forget to ask for the rescheduled interview timing. This shows that you are actually interested in appearing for the job interview.

2. Calling the Recruiter or Sending an E-Mail

Now when you know the reason (unavoidable), it’s time to inform the employer. This is when you can explain the situation and apologize for missing the interview date. When the scheduled time is near, a phone call is an appropriate option where you can get an instant response than sending an email. However, when you have sufficient days left for the interview, you can also send an email for scheduling a new appointment. Convey your apology for the inconvenience caused and remain flexible for the next interview schedule. Moreover, your email needs not to be a long one. Keep it short and crisp.

3. Ensuring Timely Follow-Up

Once the employer has agreed on rescheduling the interview, the battle does not end here. The next step is following up with him with a ‘thank you’ note. Appreciate him/her for understanding your situation and being so flexible with the interview schedule. This follow up email will help you to confirm the changed time and date of interview. Close on a positive note reiterating how eagerly you are looking forward to the opportunity.

Following the right approach demonstrates that you are a professional who understands the importance of the interviewer’s time as well as values the company. This also conveys that you are a sincere and easy to work with employee, thus giving a positive impression on the employer.

Good luck!

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