How Long Should You Wait for an Interviewer to Show Up?
I once found myself in an awkward waiting room, anxiously awaiting an interview that was already 15 minutes behind schedule. As the minutes ticked by, my nerves began to get the better of me. Should I leave? Should I try to reschedule? I was torn between being polite and advocating for my own time.
This frustrating experience is not uncommon. Interviewers running late is a common occurrence, leaving candidates feeling uncertain and disrespected. But what is the right amount of time to wait before giving up? And what can you do to make the most of the situation?
Interview Etiquette: Setting Boundaries
As a general rule of thumb, it’s advisable to wait 15-20 minutes after the scheduled interview time before leaving. This provides a reasonable buffer for unexpected delays, such as traffic or technical difficulties. However, if the interviewer has not shown up within that timeframe, it’s acceptable to inquire about the situation.
Politely approach the receptionist or call the interviewer’s office to ask if there is a delay. If the interviewer is still running late, you can request a rescheduled time. It’s important to be assertive but respectful in your communication, as you don’t want to come across as demanding or entitled.
Understanding the Interview Dynamics
It’s important to remember that an interview is a two-way street. Both the interviewer and the candidate are evaluating each other. If the interviewer is consistently late or disrespectful, it may be a reflection of their work style or the company culture.
While it’s always advisable to be professional, it’s also important to protect your own time and self-respect. If you feel that the interviewer is not respecting your schedule, it’s okay to decline the interview or ask for a rescheduled time that is more convenient for you.
Tips for Handling Interviewer Delays
In addition to setting boundaries, here are some tips for handling interviewer delays:
- Be prepared: Bring something to keep you occupied while you wait, such as a book or a laptop.
- Be flexible: If the interviewer is running late, be willing to reschedule the interview for a different time or day.
- Be assertive: Don’t hesitate to inquire about the delay after 15-20 minutes. Be polite but firm in your communication.
- Use the time wisely: If you have to wait, use the time to gather your thoughts, review your resume, or observe the office environment.
Here’s a sample script for inquiring about the delay:
“Excuse me, I’m here for my interview with [interviewer’s name]. They were scheduled to meet me at [scheduled time], but they’re not here yet. Is there a delay?”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Q: How long should I wait for an interviewer to show up?
- A: 15-20 minutes
- Q: What should I do if the interviewer is still late?
- A: Politely inquire about the situation and ask for a rescheduled time if necessary.
- Q: Can I leave the interview if the interviewer is late?
- A: Yes, but it’s advisable to give the interviewer a reasonable amount of time to catch up.
- Q: How can I handle interviewer delays professionally?
- A: Be prepared, be flexible, be assertive, and use the time wisely.
Conclusion
Waiting for an interviewer to show up can be frustrating, but it’s important to remember that there are always two sides to the story. By setting boundaries, understanding the interview dynamics, and following these tips, you can effectively handle interviewer delays while protecting your own time and self-respect.
Are you interested in learning more about interview etiquette or handling job search challenges? Let me know in the comments below.
