by First impressions matter, especially during a job interview.
One of the key aspects of creating a positive impression is how early should you be for an interview. How early is too early, and when does punctuality become counterproductive?
In this article, we’ll explore the best time when to arrive for an interview, ensuring that you're punctual without appearing overanxious.
How early should you be for an interview?
While punctuality is crucial in making a good impression, arriving too early can be just as problematic as arriving late. Striking the right balance shows your respect for the interviewer’s time and your ability to plan ahead.
A good rule of thumb is to arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to your interview scheduled time.
This window provides several advantages:
- Time to check in. Arriving early allows you to complete any necessary check-in process without feeling rushed. Some companies may require you to sign in, provide identification, or wait in a reception area.
- Compose yourself. Those few minutes give you time to relax, adjust your appearance, and mentally prepare. Taking a few deep breaths or reviewing key points of your resume can help calm pre-interview nerves.
- Impression of punctuality. Arriving exactly on time may seem risky, especially if something unforeseen occurs (like parking issues or security checks).
The problem with arriving too early
While it’s tempting to think that showing up extremely early demonstrates enthusiasm, arriving more than 15 minutes early can actually create an awkward situation.
Here's why:
- Pressure on the interviewer. If you show up too early, the interviewer may feel obligated to rush what they’re doing to accommodate you. This can create unnecessary tension.
- Awkward waiting time. Sitting in the lobby for 20 to 30 minutes can be uncomfortable for both you and the staff. Additionally, you might be sitting within earshot of the interviewer, which may cause anxiety.
- Perception of poor time management. Arriving excessively early may signal to the employer that you didn’t plan your time properly. For instance, coming 45 minutes before the scheduled time could imply that you don't know how early to show up for an interview.
To help you strike the perfect balance, here are a few tips to manage your interview arrival time effectively.
Plan your route ahead of time
Before the day of the interview, make sure you know how to get there. Check traffic patterns if you’re driving or confirm train or bus schedules if using public transport.
Most navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze can predict traffic based on the time of day. Make sure you account for rush hour, construction, or any known events that could cause delays.
Consider parking or security checks
If the company has its own parking lot, check whether parking is free or if you need a permit. If it is limited or restricted, locate nearby street parking. Also, have change or a credit card ready if parking requires payment.
Some corporate offices or government buildings require visitors to go through security checkpoints, which can add extra minutes to your entry process. Be prepared to present identification, go through metal detectors, and sign in at the front desk.
To speed things up, have your ID and any other required materials ready before entering the building.
Have a backup plan
Even the best-laid strategies can go awry, which is why it’s essential to have a backup plan in case something unexpected happens.
- Always have a secondary route in mind in case of heavy traffic, road closures, or public transport delays.
- Leave extra time in your travel plans so that, even if something goes wrong, you’re still able to arrive at least 10 to 15 minutes early.
- Have the contact information of the interviewer or the company’s HR department saved in your phone.
- Is 20 minutes too early for an interview?
- Yes, showing up 20 minutes before a job interview can be seen as a bit too early.
What to do if you arrive too early?
If you find yourself with extra time before how early to be for an interview, here are some practical steps you can take to manage the situation smoothly.
Wait nearby but not at the office
If you arrive at the location more than 15 minutes early, it's best to avoid entering the office immediately. Instead, find a nearby spot where you can wait comfortably without putting pressure on the interviewer.
- If there’s a café, grab a drink and use the time to relax or review your notes.
- If no café is available, look for a nearby bench or quiet area where you can collect your thoughts and avoid feeling rushed.
- If you’ve driven, your car can be a great place to wait. You can listen to calming music or mentally rehearse your answers to common questions.
Review your notes
One productive way to spend your extra time is by reviewing the materials you’ve prepared for the interview. Use this time wisely to ensure you're fully prepared and focused.
Mentally rehearse your responses to potential interview questions, such as "Tell me about yourself" or "Why do you want to work here?" This can help calm nerves and solidify your preparation.
Re-read your resume or portfolio to remind yourself of key talking points. This will help you feel confident when discussing your qualifications.
If you have internet access, review the company’s website or recent news articles about them. This research could provide you with fresh insights to mention during the interview, showing your preparedness and interest.
Take a breather and relax
While preparation is important, it's equally essential to arrive calm and composed. Use the extra time to focus on your mental state so that you can walk into the interview relaxed and confident.
If you’re feeling tense, try a brief mindfulness or meditation exercise. Apps like Headspace or Calm offer quick sessions you can employ in these situations.
It’s easy to get anxious about an upcoming interview, but try not to overanalyze every detail. Use this waiting time to relax and stay positive.
Check your appearance
- Use this time to double-check your appearance. Fix your hair, adjust your tie, or apply a quick makeup touch-up if needed.
- Make sure your outfit is clean, wrinkle-free, and appropriate for the job interview. Look for any lint, pet hair, or stains that you may not have noticed earlier.
- Before heading into the office, check that you have all your documents, including printed copies of your resume, references, and portfolio, if applicable.
Enter the office at the right time
Once you’ve used your extra time productively, head into the office at the appropriate moment—typically 10 to 15 minutes before your scheduled time.
Calmly approach the receptionist or front desk staff, introduce yourself, and let them know you're here for an interview. Then, wait patiently in the reception area until the HR is ready to meet you.
What to do if you're running late?
Even if you know how early should you arrive for an interview, traffic, public transportation delays, or unexpected events can affect your plans. Being proactive and professional will help mitigate the situation.
The first and most important step is to contact the interviewer as soon as you realize you’re going to be late. The sooner you inform them, the better. Apologize for the delay and let them know your estimated arrival time.
For example, say something like, "I apologize for the delay, but I'm currently stuck in traffic and expect to arrive in approximately 15 minutes."
When you arrive, offer a sincere apology, but avoid dwelling too much on being late. The employer will appreciate a concise apology, followed by a positive, professional demeanor.
If you’re flustered, take a brief moment before entering the office to collect yourself.
After acknowledging the situation, quickly shift focus to the interview and the reason you’re there. The employer may have a tight schedule and need to shorten the process to accommodate your late arrival. Be prepared to make the most of the remaining time.
If your lateness impacted the flow of the interview, consider sending a follow-up email afterward. Along with your thank-you note, briefly acknowledge the delay again and reaffirm your enthusiasm for the role.
Conclusion on how early should you be for a job interview
Understanding how early should you be for an interview shows preparedness and respect for your potential employer's time, as arriving too early can be disruptive or create unnecessary pressure.
Aim to arrive 10-15 minutes before the scheduled time, and if you find yourself ahead of schedule, take a moment to relax nearby before heading in.
Striking the perfect balance between punctuality and patience can give you a competitive edge in landing the job.
