Best Tips: 5 SMART Ways To Reschedule an Interview

“I am currently employed and actively job searching. I was invited for an interview, but was assigned on a project by my boss. How do I reschedule the interview without appearing disinterested in the job,” asks Jennifer Kimanzi in an email.

We cannot predict the future and in cases such as Jennifer’s something inevitable might come up before you attend the interview. What do you do when you have to cancel an interview to your dream job?

“Most companies understand that circumstances come up. What’s important is to let the company know in a timely manner that you won’t make the interview,” advices Alison Doyle, a job search expert with experience in HR.

Apart from work, there are other valid reasons to postpone an interview. They include: health, personal reasons such as the death of a family member and travel glitch (for example if you are travelling from Kisumu to Nairobi and there is a matatu strike)

Smart Ways of Rescheduling a Job Interview

Ms. Doyle says that the best way to reschedule a job interview is both by email and a phone call.

“Let the person who scheduled the interview know that you cannot make it and ask if it would be possible to reschedule,” she adds.

Give enough Notice
The polite thing to do is give as much notice as possible. Remember that the HR manager is human and being considerate of their time is something they will appreciate. Do not cancel at the last minute unless it is an emergency.

Doing this shows that you are enthusiastic about the job and displays that you are a good employee.
More tips on how to reschedule an interview

Call first, then email.
The most effective way is to call your interviewer. Communication through phone makes it easier for them to understand your situation and make better plans.

It is also advisable to send an email and apologize for the inconvenience caused. Here is sample email:

Dear Human Resource Manager,
Due to ABC reason (explain the reason), I request the cancellation of my job interview for the position of Accounts Assistant in Nairobi with Mr. XYZ.

I would appreciate if you can reschedule the job interview as soon as possible.

Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter.

Please accept my apologies for any inconvenience caused.

Sincerely,
Your names.

Explain the reason for rescheduling
A well explained situation is more likely to make the interviewer be more considerate and willing to reschedule.

For example if you are sick, just don’t say you can’t make it to the interview. You can say, “I have malaria and not strong enough to attend an interview. I do not wish to waste your time so I request a further date for the interview when I am fit enough to come to your offices.”

Suggest an alternative date
You have already explained your situation; suggest another date that is most suitable for you and the interviewer. Do not make a mistake of pushing your date but negotiate to a date that is comfortable for both of you. You do not want the interviewer to feel as if you forced them.

Lastly, remember to be professional when communicating. Being rude and demanding can see you lose out on your dream job.