How to Reschedule a Job Interview

While preparing for a job interview, events or situations that might need you to reschedule can arise like a family emergency, illness, etc.

This is why you need to know how to reschedule interviews properly in a polite and professional way. And also to ensure you don’t affect your chances of getting the job.

In this article, you will learn how to reschedule a job interview, including an email template to guide you.

 

5 Valid Reasons for Rescheduling a Job Interview

It is not every situation that calls for rescheduling an interview. For example, lack of preparation is not a good reason to reschedule an interview.

However, there are some valid and legitimate reasons why you may need to reschedule such as:

1. Family Emergency

Before an interview, family emergencies can occur like an accident, your family member getting sick, etc. In such cases, you may have to reschedule your interview to attend to the issue.

2. Transport Issues

Before the interview or on the day of the interview, you might experience some transport problems like an accident, car breakdown, road blockage like flooding, etc. If there is no way out in such situation, you can choose to reschedule the interview.

3. Sickness

If you fall sick before an interview and you feel that you can’t manage through it, it is best to reschedule. If you go in sick, it might affect your performance and you might make mistakes.

4.Technological/Internet issues

This relates to virtual interviews. If you start experiencing issues with the internet or your computer before the interview, it is best to reschedule. Unless you are very sure the situation will be controlled before the interview.

5. Unforeseen Circumstances

Life is unpredictable and things can happen anytime. If something urgent comes up before your interview that you cannot push, you can choose to reschedule it.

 

Also Read: Top 10 Job Interview Questions and Practical Answers

 

How to Reschedule a Job Interview?

1. Reach Out as Soon as Possible

Once you are very sure that you can’t meet the interview date, reach out to the hiring person or contact person immediately.

Even if the interview is still days away, you should still reach out. Don’t wait till the last minute or it will look unprofessional, as if you don’t care.

Also, you can choose to call, text or email them. It mainly depends on your method of communication. For example, if the interview was scheduled through a call, it is better to call them than to send an email.

Tip: If you are sending an email, you should also try to call. This is because they might not see your email. So, calling the interviewer is better.

2. Express the Reason for Rescheduling Your Interview

You need to be able to politely state why you can’t be available for the interview. It must be genuine and must not sound ridiculous or unreliable.

However, try to make it brief yet thoughtful. Don’t give them your family history or any unnecessary information.

3. Mention Your Continued Interest and Enthusiasm for The Role

This step is very important as it shows that you do not take the position lightly. Let your interviewer know that you are still interested in the position.

4. Suggest a New Interview Time and Date

When rescheduling your job interview, you should also suggest an alternative time or date. It shows that you respect the interviewer’s time.

However, if you are not sure, you can politely ask the interviewer to suggest a convenient time instead.

Tip: Try to offer at least two possible dates or time slots when rescheduling.

5. Apologize for Rescheduling

When sending or calling to reschedule, always try to apologize for the inconvenience it may cause. This is because your interviewers would have to change their previously made plans because of you. So, be sincere and apologize.

It also shows that you are a professional and you value their time.

6. Express Your Gratitude

Rescheduling am interview requires a change of plans for the interviewer. So, try to end your rescheduling message by expressing gratitude. Thank your interviewer for their understanding and flexibility.

This can leave a positive impression in their minds and shows you appreciate their time.

7. Make the Call/Email as Short as Possible

If you are rescheduling your job interview, try to make the call/email brief yet thoughtful. You don’t have to start explaining all the details as to why you want to reschedule. Let the call or email be brief, thoughtful and professional.

For example, if the reason you can’t attend the interview is because you are sick, don’t start telling the interviewer about what made you sick or all the symptoms you are experiencing.

 

You Might Like:

1. 20 Strengths and Weaknesses for Job Interviews

2. Practical Ways to Sell Yourself in an Interview

An Email Template to Reschedule a Job Interview

Below is an email template to guide you while writing your own email/text to reschedule a job interview:

Subject Line: Request to reschedule the job interview

Dear (The Interviewer’s Name)

I am reaching out to let you know that, due to (the reason), I won’t be able to attend the interview originally scheduled for (date and time).

I sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause you.

I am very interested in the (Job Title) position and would really appreciate the opportunity to reschedule the interview.

Would (suggest one or two alternative dates/times) work for you?

Thank you for your understanding.

Kind regards,

Your Full Name.

(Your Phone Number)

 

Frequently Asked Questions

How much notice should you give before rescheduling a job interview?

As soon as you are sure you can’t make the interview, reach out immediately. It doesn’t matter if the interview is on that same day or even weeks away.

The earlier you communicate, the better.

Should you call or send an email to reschedule?

As mentioned earlier, this depends on your method of communication. If the interview was scheduled through an email, then send an email. If it was through a call, then make a call to reschedule.

Also, in some cases if you are not sure they might see the email, you might still choose to call.

Can you reschedule a job interview on the same day?

Yes, you can reschedule a job interview on the same day. However, it should only be because there is no other option but to reschedule.

Your interviewer’s time matters.

Will rescheduling an interview affect your chances of getting the job?

In most cases, it would not affect you if you do it right. Most employers understand that unexpected situations can happen. So, just make sure your reason for rescheduling is genuine and you do it in a polite and professional manner.