If you’re looking for a job, it’s essential to know how to respond to an interview request. You can’t afford the risk of making any mistakes that will get in your way when getting hired.
This guide is designed specifically with this purpose in mind– to give you all the information and advice needed so that your response stands out from everyone else’s and land you a job offer.
How to Respond to Interview Requests
When you’re searching for a job or looking to secure work experience in your field of choice, interviews are an essential part of the process.
If you’ve never been interviewed before, it can be tricky and nerve-racking to know what questions might come up during an interview. And answering those difficult questions head-on is overwhelming because they require thinking outside the box that most people aren’t used to doing in their daily lives; this may make them feel anxious about their performance during the interview.
How to Respond to an Interview Request: Email
Email interview requests are a common first step in the hiring process. They can be used for different purposes, depending on an organization’s preferences. For example, some organizations might use email interview requests to prescreen candidates or get more information about their skills and experience.
Here are some suggestions to help you craft elegant and thoughtful email responses to interview requests:
Don’t change the subject line: When replying to an interview request, it is essential to maintain the same subject line. This technique will make it easier for the hiring manager to track your response and keep all correspondence in one place.
Thank the hiring manager: Thank the interviewer for the opportunity, and be polite. You should also let them know if you cannot attend or have other questions.
Provide your availability: When you receive a request for an interview, you first want to check your calendar and see if you are available. If you are unavailable, let the hiring manager know as soon as possible. Next, provide your availability along with your phone number. This will help the hiring manager schedule the interview at a convenient time for both of you.
Keep your tone professional: When you receive an interview request, it is important to respond promptly and professionally. This means keeping your communications upbeat and polite and proofreading your email before you hit send. Thank the interviewer for reaching out, express your enthusiasm for the opportunity, and let them know when you will be available for an interview.
Additionally, email interview requests are commonly used by hiring managers and human resources professionals as a way to follow up on an application or phone screening or to recruit candidates who haven’t applied yet. When you receive an email interview request, there are a few things you can do to prepare:
- Review the job listing and ensure you understand the position and the requirements.
- Familiarize yourself with the company’s culture and values.
- Polish your resume and take a look at some common interview questions.
Once ready, respond to the email interview request indicating that you’re interested in moving forward. Be sure to attach your resume and any other materials they may have asked for.
Here’s an Example:
“Hi [Name],
Thank you for inviting me to speak with [company name]. I would like to confirm that I am willing to meet with you on Oct 30, 2022, at 9:15 a.m.
I’m grateful to have the opportunity to speak with you. I’m looking forward to finding out more about your job.
Sincerely,
[Your name]”
How to Respond to an Interview Request: Phone
When you receive a phone interview request, you should first call the recruiter back and state that you are interested in the position. Thank them for giving you the opportunity and express your excitement about the chance to interview. During your phone call, be confident, calm, and attentive. Make sure to call during a time when you can focus only on the interview so that you can make the best impression possible.
Additionally, when you receive a phone call for an interview, try to answer it yourself. Thank the recruiter for the interview request, and let her know you are available at the scheduled time. If you don’t hear back from the recruiter after leaving a voicemail, follow up with another message.
How to Decline an Interview Request
Declining an interview invitation is not a big deal. You are not obligated to offer a reason, but you can choose to mention that you are no longer available or not interested in the opportunity. If you have someone who might be interested in the job, you can offer to refer them for the position.
Here’s an example:
“Hi, Name,
Thank you for contacting me. I’m grateful for the chance to talk to you. Unfortunately, I’m no longer available and must say no. I wish you the best of luck filling the role, and if I find someone I think could be a good fit, I’ll notify them of the position.
Best Regards,
Your Name”
How to Reply to an Interview Invitation with Availability
When you receive an interview invitation, you should first check your calendar to see if the date and time work for you. If they don’t, try to rearrange your schedule. You can say that you’re looking forward to meeting with the recruiter, but unfortunately, you have a scheduling conflict. If there are other dates available that would work better for the recruiter, suggest those as well.
Additionally, thank the employer for their offer of an interview, and confirm your interest in the position. However, let them know that you are not available at the current time and provide specific dates when you would be available for an interview. It is essential to be polite and professional when declining an interview. Thank the employer again for considering you for the position.
Questions to Ask When Responding to Interview Requests
When responding to an interview request, it is important to address salary expectations. It can save you from wasting a lot of time. However, don’t go into too much detail at this stage. Keep it to the basics. For example, you should know whether or not this job requires you to commute to a specific location or if you’re able to work from home. You should also follow up with the hiring manager to clarify any questions after extending an interview offer. It is also a good idea to save long responses for the actual interview.
Some other things you should ask when responding to an interview request include if you need to bring anything with you (such as a work sample), what time and location the interview will be, and any other unclear questions. Be sure to research the company and role before attending the interview.
How to Confirm an Interview by Email After it’s Scheduled
Once you have scheduled an interview with someone, it is important to send a conf