You have applied for your dream job and you are eagerly waiting for the interview. But then, something unexpected happens: you get sick, you have a family emergency, or you have a scheduling conflict. You wonder: is it bad to reschedule an interview?
Is it Bad to Reschedule an Interview?
The answer is: it depends. Rescheduling an interview is not necessarily a deal-breaker, but it can have some negative consequences. Here are some factors to consider before you decide to reschedule an interview:
1. The reason for rescheduling
Some reasons are more valid and understandable than others. For example, if you have a medical emergency or a death in the family, most employers will be sympathetic and accommodating. However, if you reschedule because you forgot about the interview, you changed your mind about the job, or you got a better offer from another company, that can reflect poorly on your professionalism and interest in the position.
2. The timing of rescheduling
The sooner you inform the employer about your need to reschedule, the better. Ideally, you should contact them at least 24 hours before the scheduled interview time, or as soon as you know about the situation that prevents you from attending. This way, you can minimize the inconvenience and disruption for the employer and show respect for their time. If you reschedule at the last minute or worse, no-show without any notice, that can damage your reputation and chances of getting hired.
3. The communication of rescheduling
The way you communicate your request to reschedule can make a big difference in how the employer perceives you. You should always be polite, apologetic, and grateful for their understanding. You should also provide a clear and honest explanation for why you need to reschedule and offer some alternative dates and times that work for both of you. You should avoid making excuses, blaming others, or being vague about your availability. You should also confirm the new interview date and time in writing and thank them for their flexibility.
4. The frequency of rescheduling
Rescheduling an interview once may not be a big deal, but if you do it multiple times, that can raise some red flags for the employer. They may question your reliability, commitment, and interest in the job. They may also lose patience and move on to other candidates who are more available and responsive. Therefore, you should only reschedule an interview when it is absolutely necessary and unavoidable, and try to stick to the new date and time as much as possible.
How to Reschedule an Interview Professionally and Politely
Sometimes, life happens and you need to reschedule an interview. Maybe you have a personal emergency, a conflicting appointment, or a sudden illness. Whatever the reason, you don’t want to miss the opportunity to make a good impression on your potential employer. Here are some tips on how to reschedule an interview professionally and politely.
1. Contact the interviewer as soon as possible
Don’t wait until the last minute to cancel or reschedule your interview. The sooner you let them know, the more likely they are to accommodate your request and appreciate your honesty. Use the same mode of communication that they used to contact you, whether it’s email, phone, or text. If you can’t reach them directly, leave a message or send a follow-up email.
2. Explain your reason briefly and sincerely
You don’t need to go into too much detail about why you need to reschedule your interview, but you should give a valid and respectful reason. For example, you can say “I’m very sorry, but I have a family emergency and I need to reschedule our interview” or “I apologize for the inconvenience, but I have a doctor’s appointment that I can’t postpone and I need to reschedule our interview”. Avoid lying or making up excuses, as this can damage your credibility and reputation.
3. Suggest a new date and time that works for both of you
Don’t leave it up to the interviewer to propose a new date and time for your interview. Instead, offer some alternatives that show your flexibility and interest in the position. For example, you can say “Would you be available next Monday at 10 am or Tuesday at 2 pm?” or “Can we reschedule our interview for later this week or early next week?”. Make sure to check your calendar and availability before suggesting a new date and time.
4. Confirm the new arrangements and thank the interviewer for their understanding
Once you and the interviewer agree on a new date and time for your interview, confirm the details in writing. Send an email or a text message that summarizes the new arrangements and expresses your gratitude for their cooperation.
For example, you can say “Thank you for your understanding and flexibility. I look forward to speaking with you on Wednesday at 11 am” or “I appreciate your kindness and patience. I’m excited to meet with you on Friday at 3 pm”. This will show your professionalism and enthusiasm for the opportunity.
5. Prepare for your interview and follow up accordingly
Rescheduling an interview doesn’t mean that you can relax and forget about it until the new date. You should still prepare for your interview as thoroughly as possible and research the company, the role, and the interviewer.
You should also follow up with a reminder email or a phone call a day before the new date and thank them again for their time and consideration. On the day of the interview, arrive early, dress appropriately, and bring any relevant documents or materials. Apologize once more for rescheduling and focus on making a positive impression.
Conclussion
Rescheduling an interview is not ideal, but it does not have to ruin your chances of getting hired. If you handle it professionally and respectfully, you can still make a good impression and show that you are a serious and qualified candidate. However, you should also be prepared for some potential drawbacks, such as losing your priority status, missing out on other opportunities, or facing more competition from other applicants. Therefore, you should weigh the pros and cons carefully before you decide to reschedule an interview.
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