Unexpected Job Interview Changes
How to Be Flexible and Still Get the Most from a Career Opportunity
It's interview time! Only the person you were supposed to meet has been unexpectedly called away. Put the time to good use and get the most from the opportunity.
Candidates who are on the market actively looking for employment know the pain and frustration of not getting a call. So when they have arranged an interview it’s only natural to build up at least a little anticipation.
But what happens if they arrive at the prearranged date and time only to find out the person they were to meet has been unexpectedly called away and now someone else has been substituted? Is it time to cry and get angry? Or to run screaming out the door, hop into the car and drive home (or back to the office)?
It’s understandable that someone might be upset. After all, for a job seeker who has set aside time, even taken a day or a few hours off from their current job to go on a job interview, it can be a major impact to them emotionally and professionally if they arrive to find out that an emergency situation has changed their plans.
However, now is not the time to have a mental melt down. Instead candidates need to pull themselves together and deal with the situation in a grown-up manner.
Remain Professional and Flexible
Granted it probably doesn’t happen that often, but recruiter’s and hiring managers are like any other employees and, therefore, may be unexpectedly called away at any time.
When candidates receive the news that there is a change, it is important to not over react. Disappointment is fine. However, this is when they need to remain calm and be flexible.
The intent is for job seekers to put their best foot forward and turn this situation into an opportunity to shine by showing they can go with the flow. Making a good first impression still matters because behavior and attitude now will be noted and that information will be passed along to the people who ultimately make the hiring decision.
Utilize Interview Time Wisely
Just because a job seeker is not meeting with the person originally intended does not mean he should squander this chance to show why he is the candidate of choice.
First and foremost, use this time wisely. Candidates should make sure whoever they speak to knows all about their background and why it is a good fit for the job and company. Take the time to share information about work experience, educational achievements and career accomplishments.
In addition, candidates should use this time to gain as much insight into this opportunity as possible. Ask all the same questions about the position and the company, regardless of who is conducting the interview.
Determine the Next Step
As with any interview, it is important for job seekers to take the information provided – no matter how much or how little – and determine if they have further interest in the position and the company.
If it sounds like a winning combination then now is the time to ask about the next step. Find out about rescheduling the missed interview or determine if it is possible to meet with other decision-makers in the company. Candidates need to show their continuing interest.
What it all comes down to is that Interviewing is about getting a foot in the door. Just because the participants have changed, doesn’t mean the interview has no value. Take the time to get the most out of this – or any – career opportunity.
