Timekeeping is an essential part of any job and a skill you can easily demonstrate by showing up on time. Arrive on time for your job interview and make a great first impression on the team. You can’t control most of the interview process – but you can show up early.
If you can pick the interview time, choose a time that you can comfortably make. Here are a few tips on how you can ensure you turn up on time, giving you the best chance to make a good impression in your job interview.
Why are first impressions so crucial for an interview?
An employer will be interviewing a number of candidates, so giving them a reason to discard you early on is not what you want to happen.
Your interview begins the moment you walk in the door. Dress in clean and professional clothing. While this won’t be the entire reason for the interviewer’s decision, first impressions do count.
Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself to your interviewer first. A handshake and chit-chat can put you both at ease and shows you are a confident, self-assured individual. But before all this, arriving on time is probably the most important thing you can do.
If you are driving
Plan your route to the interview and do a trial run the day before to familiarise yourself with the journey, if you have time. Factor in any rush hour traffic or congestion into your journey and always leave some extra time.
Ensure that your vehicle is fit for purpose and ready to go before you have to leave. Top up your fuel and make sure your car tyres aren’t going to let you down on the way.
If you’re taking public transport
Buses and trains can be very unreliable. Buy your tickets in advance and choose an earlier bus or train to give yourself some extra time in case things take a little longer than you expected. If your train does get delayed, you might still make it on time.
If you can’t make it on time due to unforeseen or uncontrollable circumstances, call your interviewer and explain the situation. Chances are they will sympathise and wait or re-schedule if they have a busy day ahead.
If you are travelling to a different city for the interview, consider spending the night before in that location, especially if your interview is early in the morning. This will reduce any risk of being late because of public transport and delayed trains.
If you’re getting a taxi
Book your taxi in advance and plan what time you want to get picked up. During rush hour, there can be long waits for taxis, and sometimes, there are none available. It’s far better to be overprepared when travelling to an interview. Consider a back-up plan in case you break down, or your transport falls through.