Reschedule An Interview – Sample Email

“I am currently employed and job searching. I was invited for an interview, but after agreeing to the time and date; an important department meeting was scheduled for the same time. How do I reschedule the interview without missing the opportunity?”

No one can predict what happens in the future and as such sometimes you have to rearrange some plans. This is where rescheduling of an interview comes in. Most recruiters understand that some things are unavoidable which is why instead of just letting the opportunity pass you by, you can try rescheduling the interview.

How do you go about rescheduling the interview without losing out on the opportunity all together?

Here are 5 smart tips on how to reschedule an interview.

1. Timing is Key

It is important that you give notice for rescheduling of the interview in good time. Do not wait until the last minute to start calling the interviewer.

It is not only the polite thing to do, but it will also show the recruiter that you have a good character which can end up working in your favour.

READ ALSO >>> 5 Things Kenyan Job Seekers Miss On The Day Of The Interview.

Not to mention that when you do not reschedule on time, the interviewer might end up canceling the interview altogether.

The only exception is when it is an emergency and you had no way of knowing you will not be able to make it for the interview.

2. Call first, then email.

Sending an email is important when it comes to rescheduling an interview, however, the best thing to do is to call first.

By calling, you will ensure the interviewer gets your message on time and it will give you an opportunity to better explain yourself and plan for another interview.

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 name.

RELATED ARTICLE >>> 5 Ways To Prepare For A Last-Minute Interview

3. Explain the reason for rescheduling

When it comes to rescheduling some interviewers would prefer that you give a reason for not being able to attend the interview.

For example, if you are not feeling well it is better to mention this as opposed to just saying you cannot make it for the interview.

This might help make the interviewer more considerate and willing to reschedule the interview.

4. Tell the truth

If you cannot make it to an interview because you fell ill or because of work constraints then it is better, to be honest with the interviewer.

You might be surprised at how understanding some of them can be in certain situations. Not to mention, if you lie about why you have to reschedule the interview the lie might end up catching up to you later.

5. Suggest an alternative date

Now that you have already explained that you cannot make it for the interview, don’t just expect the interviewer to offer you an alternative interview date.

It is up to you since you are the one rescheduling to provide a date that suits both you and the interviewer.

It is important that you remain flexible because a date that works for you might not work for the interviewer. Therefore, you need to avoid pushing for a certain date and instead negotiate for a date that fits both of you.

Lastly, it is important that you remain professional when it comes to communicating with the interviewer. You cannot demand another interview or become rude once your request to reschedule is denied.

READ ALSO >>> 5 Tips On How To Prepare For An Interview

Do you have any questions? Leave them in the comment section below.

The writer is a Digital Marketer at Career Point Kenya. Email: michelle@www.careerpointkenya.co.ke