In this guide
Templates, checklists and worksheets
How to ask to reschedule an interview
How much notice to give, how to offer alternative times so the reply is easy, and templates for planned clashes and last-minute illness.
When asking to move is reasonable
Employers understand clashes such as another interview, a work commitment you cannot move, a medical appointment or a caring emergency. What they find harder is a late request with no alternatives, because it leaves them to restart the scheduling.
Ask once. If you need to move the same interview twice, explain plainly and accept that the employer may not be able to offer another slot.
Offer times that are easy to accept
Illustrative example
Vague versus specific availability
Before
I am free most of next week, whenever suits you.
After
I could do Tuesday 13 October from 2pm, Wednesday 14 October before 11am, or any time on Thursday 15 October.
Specific windows let the scheduler reply with one choice instead of another question.
Templates
Subject: [Job title] interview on [date]: request to reschedule Dear [name], Thank you for inviting me to interview for [job title] on [date and time]. Unfortunately I have [brief reason] at that time and cannot move it. I am sorry for the inconvenience. I remain very interested in the role and could attend on [option 1], [option 2] or [option 3]. I am happy to fit around the panel's availability if none of those work. Kind regards, [Your name]
Subject: Today's [job title] interview Dear [name], Further to my call this morning, I am unwell and unable to attend today's interview at [time]. I apologise for the short notice. I am still very interested in the role and would be grateful for the chance to interview at another time. I expect to be available from [date]. Best wishes, [Your name]
When the employer reschedules you
Reply promptly, confirm the new time in writing and update your own calendar and notes. If the new time does not work, say so in the same message and offer alternatives, using the same specific-windows approach.
After any change of time
- The new date, time and time zone are confirmed in writing.
- The format (video, phone or in person) and any link or address are unchanged, or I have the new details.
- My calendar and application notes show the new time.
Common questions
Will asking to reschedule hurt my chances?
A single, early, polite request with clear alternatives is normal. Repeated or last-minute changes without explanation are what employers remember.
Should I give the real reason?
Give a brief, true reason, such as 'a work commitment I cannot move'. You do not need to share private details.
Drafted with AI assistance and checked against Luceria’s editorial standards. Examples are illustrative, not real people’s results. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.