Few things in life are as eagerly anticipated as a job interview. But sometimes, despite our best efforts, something comes up, and we have to cancel our appointment. So, what do you do when your kiddo is home sick with a 103-degree fever? Or your current job suddenly schedules a meeting that you would be risking your employment by skipping?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Or, perhaps, you’ve had a different interview for a role that’s a better job or schedule fit for you. How you move forward is mainly dependent on whether you’re still hoping to be considered for the role<\/strong> or if you’re withdrawing your application.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Don’t despair. There are ways to cancel that won’t automatically rule you out as a candidate. Or, at the very least, it won’t damage your personal brand<\/a> and prevent you from future consideration at the company. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Even if you’re no longer pursuing the role, it’s essential to notify the recruiter to maintain your professional reputation<\/strong>. Do your best to avoid simply not showing up, as you’ll be burning your bridges with the company and possibly damaging your professional networking options<\/a>. Use the following four tips to move forward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While it’s always important to be thoughtful about your career choices, it’s also helpful to keep an open mind. Declining a job interview because you’re unsure if it’s the right fit<\/a> can be a mistake. Attending the interview allows you to learn more about the role and the company and decide if it’s something you’d be interested in. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Even if, ultimately, the job isn’t for you, attending the interview can be a valuable learning experience<\/strong>. You’ll get new perspectives, grow your network, and gain interview practice. And remember that you might be able to negotiate for a higher salary<\/a> or flexible work options if you’ve discovered they won’t meet your needs. Why not keep the interview and consider it more of an informational interview<\/a> that helps you grow your professional perspective?<\/p>\n\n\n\n When it comes to canceling a job interview, there are a few things to consider. First and foremost, you want to be as professional as possible<\/strong>. This means being respectful of the interviewer’s time. Secondly, you’ll want to make sure that you cancel the interview promptly. The sooner you cancel, the better, as it shows professional respect for the recruiter’s busy schedule.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What do you do if life happens and situations beyond your control mean you have to reschedule a job interview? While it’s never ideal, if you find yourself in this situation, don’t panic. The best thing you can do is contact the interviewer as soon as possible to explain the situation and give them some potential dates and times you’re available for a rescheduled interview. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Always apologize for the inconvenience and assure them that you’re still interested in the position. In many cases, the interviewer will understand that life happens and accommodate you if possible<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It can be tempting to try and explain the circumstances that are outside of your control. However, it’s often in your best interests to leave extra details out so you don’t appear to have negative energy or drama. You don’t always need to give a reason, but it can help when you’re hoping to reschedule. <\/p>\n\n\n\nHow to Professionally Cancel Your Interview<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
1. Ensure You Truly Want to Cancel<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
2. Give as Much Notice as Possible<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
3. Ask to Reschedule<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
4. Don’t Share Any Drama<\/h3>\n\n\n\n