If you’ve scheduled an interview, take it as a serious commitment. Any interview is a positive opportunity to show your skills and make a great impression on a hiring manager. But what happens when you can’t make it? It can be frustrating on both sides to set up an important meeting and have to cancel. Just know that canceling an interview is a serious matter, and you should not be attempting to reschedule for any trivial concerns. Davis Staffing knows exactly what hiring managers are thinking, so we’re here to share acceptable reasons to reschedule a job interview.

Severe Illness

We’re not talking about a cold here. If you need to reschedule a job interview, you must be sick – really sick. For any severe illness like pneumonia, bronchitis, or severe stomach bug, it’s acceptable to cancel. Hiring managers often understand that life can get in the way. As important as it is to decrease the spread of any disease, you may receive some pushback if you try to reschedule your interview. If you have to cancel your interview due to severe illness, reach as soon as you know you won’t be able to come in.

Heavy Weather

Another acceptable excuse to reschedule an interview is a massive storm. If there’s a hurricane looming or a blizzard just hit, you can feel confident trying to reschedule. If a heavy storm is a concern, check the forecasts and the company website or local listings. For example, if a massive storm has just passed through and you have an interview at a University, check to see if the campus will be closed that day. Contact the hiring manager to find out what operations will be occurring on your scheduled interview date.

The Bottom Line

Often hiring managers have carefully selected interview time slots, and if you can’t make it, they might not be able to accommodate you. Because you had to delay, we’ll advise that you show as much flexibility as possible if they offer a date to reschedule. Anytime you’re asking to reschedule, you’re putting yourself at a disadvantage. However, if you express your interest in the position and show enthusiasm and dedication, most recruiters will be understanding and make something work. Be sure to provide your full availability to show them you’ll be able to bounce back and commit yourself to another meeting. Finally, make sure you’re touching base with everyone involved in your interview process. If you have a panel interview arranged, contact all parties to make sure everyone’s on the same page.

Work With a Top Staffing Agency in Chicago

As a candidate searching for the perfect position, you need all of the best resources at your disposal. It’s challenging to navigate your industry when you’re looking to land a job that showcases your skills, even if you’re an experienced candidate. Reach out to the professionals at Davis Staffing: working with a temporary staffing firm will help you find the right fit fast. As a top Chicago staffing agency, Davis Staffing has the tools to help you pursue great opportunities. Contact us today!