My interview has been cancelled at short notice, I cannot reschedule, what to do?

Question

I had a phone interview last week with the controller of a new company I am interested in. They then wanted to meet with me today for an interview. I was scheduled for an interview today, and three hours before they cancelled it and wanted to reschedule it for next week. I already took PTO from my current job. What do I do? I don't want to look bad calling out again. It will be hard to find another excuse to call off especially since I commute in the city.

How can I communicate effectively that I am unable to reschedule, but am still interested in the position?

Answer 1

It's annoying when that happens - and with the best will in the world it does happen. Interviewers are humans too and just as subject to last minute hiccups as the rest of us (illness etc). A good employer will recognise that this has put you in an awkward position and should be willing to work with you to rearrange with that in mind.

It's totally fine to say something like:

It was unfortunate that we weren't able to meet as planned. I'm still very interested in the role but I'm going to struggle to get time off again next week. Would you be able to meet me one night after work? Say at x time?

Answer 2

I think it comes down to a question of how badly you want this new position and how good an opportunity it is. Also, it depends on what you think you can 'get away' with with your current employer.

If the job is a great opportunity to advance your career and you can't afford to pass it up, then I would probably do whatever I could to make the interview happen, such as 'feigning' a sick day or family emergency, if necessary. You have to think about your own career first and I don't think most employers would be too concerned about one day, especially if you are a good employee, working hard and getting good results, and as long as it isn't a regular thing.

However, if you do that, I think it is also very important to make the new employer aware beforehand of the difficulty for you in taking time off, and that it is unlikely you would be able to re-schedule again if they cancel again at such short notice.

Answer 3

Remember that your current job may be the only one you have. So be very careful. Honesty is the best policy, but don't give out details to your current employer they don't need. Best wishes for success.

Answer 4

Take another day off. Just schedule it now so that it's not "calling in" again and it should be fine. If you can't get it on the schedule and you don't have anymore time off allowances, explain it to the interviewer.

If you got an interview, then you can probably get another job. The job you have right now is not the only thing in the world. Don't let it overstep your boundaries. Just be reasonable and mindful of what you signed up for when you agreed to take your current role and you'll be fine.

Answer 5

Annoying, but don't take it personally. Managers conduct hundreds of interviews; sounds like a key interviewer and/or hiring manager had something come up.

If next week is no good for you, just offer them a few dates and times when you can be available; e.g.:

I am available at the following dates/times:

Wed 28 Nov - morning
Thu 29 Nov - afternoon
Fri 30 Nov - morning

This is pretty standard stuff.

1. I prefer morning interviews, but some companies like afternoon. I normally give two mornings and one afternoon.
2. This morning/afternoon strategy also gives you the option to take a 1/2 day with your current employer.

Also, in my opinion, when proposing times:

3. Avoid Mondays. Some people tend to be in a rotten mood.
4. Avoid Friday afternoon. Some people don't want to be bothered, are tired from the work week, and want to get started on their weekend.