5 Tips On How To Reschedule An Interview By Email Plus Sample

You were invited for an interview and you agreed to the date and time. However, a few days before your interview, something comes up and you cannot make the specified time. How do you go about rescheduling your interview without missing out on a great opportunity?

In this article, see some tips that will help you reschedule an interview without ruining your chances of getting the job.

It is important to note that most recruiters understand that sometimes things just come up and you need to reschedule so they will be willing to listen if you do it in a professional and considerate manner.

5 tips on how to reschedule an interview by email

1. Check your timing

It is very important that as you try and reschedule the interview in good time. This means that you should not wait until the last minute to email the recruiter. Unless it is an emergency you should always reschedule early.

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Take for example, if you were invited to the interview last week, don’t wait until the day before the interview to reschedule.

This is because the recruiter is busy and you need to inform them in advance of any changes so they can prepare themselves and make changes to their schedule as well.

This shows the recruiter that you are considerate and organized which might work to your advantage. Not only that, if you try and reschedule an interview too late then the interviewer might cancel the interview all together.

2. You have to call first before sending the email

When rescheduling an interview, it is important that you send a professional email. However, before you send the email you have to ensure you call the recruitment manager first.

This is because, they might not be able to see your email because they get many of them.  Calling will ensure that the recruiter gets you message on time and you both agree on the new date and time.

3. Give your reason for rescheduling

When you call the interviewer you have to explain why you need to reschedule the interview, this will help them understand your situation better.

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According to, Carolyne a hiring manager at Corporate Staffing, it is better to say something like, I am not feeling well and hence can’t make it rather than just saying you can’t make it. Some recruiters however, don’t require an explanation.

Giving a reason might also help convince the interviewer to agree to rescheduling the interview.

4. Be honest

It is very important that when giving your reason for rescheduling an interview, that you tell the truth. If you are unable to make it to the interview because of health issues or work, it is better to say this instead of lying.

5. Give a new date for the interview

After telling the hiring manager that you are unable to attend the interview on the agreed date or time, you have to suggest a date and time when you will be available.

Keep in mind that you have to remain flexible because the date might work for you but doesn’t work for the interviewer to be willing to compromise.

How to Reschedule an Interview Sample Email

Dear Human Resource Manager or (the name of the recruiter)

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.

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Finally, it is important that you understand if it is impossible to reschedule the interview because the recruiter might be working on a deadline. You therefore, cannot get angry when you are told it is impossible to reschedule the interview.

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

Michelle is a Communications Officer/Digital Marketer at Career Point Kenya.