Job interviews can be nerve-wracking, and the thought of having to reschedule one can be even more daunting. However, sometimes unforeseen circumstances arise and rescheduling becomes necessary. Whether it’s a personal emergency or a scheduling conflict, it’s important to handle the situation professionally in order to maintain your chances of landing the job. In this blog, we’ll be providing tips and strategies on how to reschedule a job interview without damaging your chances. From crafting the perfect email or phone script to understanding the most acceptable reasons for rescheduling, we’ve got you covered. So, take a deep breath and let’s dive in on how to handle this tricky situation with grace and professionalism.
It is generally acceptable to reschedule a job interview, as long as it is done in a professional and courteous manner. However, it is important to note that rescheduling a job interview could potentially lessen your chances of getting the job, as it may indicate a lack of interest or flexibility on your part.
To minimize the impact of rescheduling on your chances, it’s a good idea to provide as much notice as possible and to be flexible with the new date and time. Additionally, make sure to follow up with the interviewer and to prepare well for the new interview to show your continued interest and enthusiasm for the position.
It’s also important to understand that there are some reasons that are more acceptable than others to reschedule an interview. For example, if you have a medical emergency, or if there is a death in the family, and so on, are valid reasons that will be understood by the interviewer.
In any case, always be honest and transparent about why you need to reschedule the interview, and express your regret for any inconvenience caused.
Here are some commonly accepted reasons for rescheduling an interview:
- A scheduling conflict: If you have another commitment or event that you cannot miss, it is acceptable to reschedule the interview.
- Illness: If you or a family member is sick, it is understandable to reschedule the interview.
- Transportation issues: If you are experiencing transportation problems, such as a flat tire or public transportation delay, it is reasonable to reschedule the interview.
- Family emergency: If there is an emergency situation with a family member, such as a death or serious illness, it is acceptable to reschedule the interview.
- Unexpected work obligation: If a work obligation arises that you cannot avoid, it’s understandable to reschedule the interview.
It’s important to remember that when rescheduling an interview, it’s best to be honest and transparent about the reason, and to express your continued interest in the position.
Email templates you can use to request rescheduling your interview:
Email template 1:
Subject: Request to Reschedule Job Interview
Dear [Interviewer's Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request to reschedule our upcoming job interview on [original interview date and time]. Due to [reason for rescheduling], I will not be able to make it to the interview at that time.
I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and I would like to express my continued interest in the position. I would greatly appreciate it if we could reschedule the interview for another day and time that works for both of us.
I have availability on [list of available dates and times]. Please let me know which date and time would work best for you, and I will make sure to keep it open.
Thank you for your understanding, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely, [Your Name]
Email template 2:
Subject: Rescheduling Job Interview
Dear [Interviewer's Name],
I am writing to apologize for any inconvenience I may have caused and to request to reschedule our scheduled job interview on [original interview date and time]. Unfortunately, due to [reason for rescheduling], I will not be able to make it to the interview as planned.
I understand that this may be an inconvenience and I assure you that I am still very interested in the opportunity and excited about the possibility of joining [Company Name]. I would like to propose the following new dates and times for the interview: [list of new dates and times].
Please let me know which of those dates and times would be most convenient for you.
Thank you for your understanding and I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely, [Your Name]
Both email templates express regret for the inconvenience, express continued interest in the position, and offer alternative dates and times for the interview.
It’s important to remember to use a professional and courteous tone and to proofread the email before sending it.
In conclusion, rescheduling a job interview can be a stressful situation, but by handling it in a professional and courteous manner, you can minimize the impact on your chances of landing the job. Remember to give as much notice as possible, apologize for the inconvenience, be flexible with the new date and time, and follow up to confirm the new interview. And when you have your new scheduled interview, come prepared and ready to impress the interviewer. It’s also important to understand that there are some reasons that are more acceptable than others to reschedule an interview, and be honest and transparent about the reason for rescheduling. By following these tips, you can navigate this tricky situation with confidence and increase your chances of getting the job.
So, stay positive, be prepared and good luck!