Congratulations—you've caught the eye of a potential employer, and they want to interview you. Believe it or not, your very next step is crucial: confirming the interview time. Why is this seemingly mundane detail so important? Read on.
Why you should confirm a job interview time
First of all, don’t get cocky, kid. The hiring manager has had almost no interaction with you to base a judgment on, so you can easily tip the scales to the negative if you make a misstep at this stage. Instead, show that you value their time by being professional and reliable.
Second, you need to avoid any miscommunication or scheduling conflicts. Check your calendar immediately, and if there’s something coinciding with your interview that you simply can’t get out of, make that known at the outset.
And finally, being 100% positive of your interview details allows you to plan your time before then so you can research the company and gather all the necessary knowledge and materials you’ll need.
How to confirm a job interview time
- Email: Sending an email to the designated contact person is a common and effective method to confirm a job interview time. Use a professional and courteous tone, express your gratitude for the opportunity, and restate the interview details (date, time, location, etc.). Request confirmation that your message has been received.
- Phone: If a contact number is provided, a phone call can be an excellent way to confirm the job interview time. It allows for direct communication, making it easier for you to clarify everything for yourself. When making the call, introduce yourself politely, express your excitement about the interview, and ask to confirm the interview time and any other relevant information.
- Online: Some companies utilize online booking systems to schedule and confirm job interviews. These platforms streamline the process by providing a calendar of available slots. If an interview appointment hasn’t already been provided to you, simply select a suitable time and receive instant confirmation. Be sure to carefully follow the instructions provided and check for any additional requirements, such as completing forms or uploading documents.
- A Third Party: In certain situations, you may need to confirm the interview time through a third party like a recruitment agency or hiring manager's assistant. Reach out to the appropriate contact person, express your intention to confirm the interview time, and provide them with the necessary details. Be polite, concise, and appreciative.
Pro Tips
- Confirm the interview time as soon as possible to demonstrate your eagerness and punctuality.
- Make sure you’re clear what type of interview it is (in-person, phone, or video) and that you’ve got the relevant address, phone number, or access info.
- Ask if there’s a dress code, where to park if necessary, and any other details like specific documents or references to have on hand.
As we said, confirming your job interview may sound like a simple task, but think of this as your chance to make an early—and great—impression on your prospective boss before they even meet you!
