Setting up an interview is a complex process.  It’s a delicate dance between HR managers, recruiters, HR staff, and the candidate.  But sometimes life happens.  Things come up unexpectedly.  And of course something came up that you now have to reschedule your job interview that you have been waiting days to go to.  The difference between leaving things on good terms, or creating a bad impression, will be determined on how you handle the cancelation (or rescheduling).   If you ever want to work for that company in the future, take the following advice into consideration.

You are most likely not the only candidate being interviewed.  If you have to cancel at the last minute without any warning or good explanation, you will run into a scheduling pileup.  It can also spark animosity between the recruiter, the company, the HR manager, and anyone else that may be involved.

Make sure you give the most notice that you can.  At least 24 hours ahead of time.  Don’t provide an elaborate excuse.  Just state that you need to reschedule or you need to cancel.  You could say, “Thank you for considering me for this role, but I’ve decided to remove myself from consideration.”  Or if you want to reschedule: “Unfortunately, I can’t attend at the time we previously agreed upon. Can we reschedule for a later date?”  Tell them on the phone!  Don’t send an email.  You can send a message after you talk to them to re confirm, but give a curtesy call first.  And be apologetic.  It will show that you are considerate of everyone’s time.  If you apply there in the future, they will remember that.