How Early Should You Show Up for an Interview, and Why Does Time Feel Like a Rubber Band?

How Early Should You Show Up for an Interview, and Why Does Time Feel Like a Rubber Band?

When preparing for an interview, one of the most common questions candidates ask is, “How early should I arrive?” The answer to this question is not as straightforward as it might seem, as it depends on various factors such as the company culture, the location of the interview, and even the candidate’s personal preferences. However, arriving too early or too late can both have negative consequences, so finding the right balance is crucial.

The Importance of Punctuality

Punctuality is a key aspect of professionalism. Arriving on time for an interview shows that you respect the interviewer’s time and are serious about the opportunity. It also gives you a chance to settle in, gather your thoughts, and review any last-minute details before the interview begins.

The Goldilocks Principle: Not Too Early, Not Too Late

The general rule of thumb is to arrive 10 to 15 minutes early for an interview. This gives you enough time to check in with the receptionist, use the restroom if needed, and mentally prepare yourself without making the interviewer feel rushed or inconvenienced. Arriving too early—say, 30 minutes or more—can be just as problematic as arriving late. It may make you appear overly eager or even desperate, and it can put unnecessary pressure on the interviewer to accommodate you before they are ready.

Factors to Consider

  1. Location and Traffic: If the interview is in a busy urban area or during peak traffic hours, you may need to leave earlier to account for potential delays. Always check the route and traffic conditions beforehand.

  2. Company Culture: Some companies have a more relaxed culture, while others are very strict about punctuality. Researching the company beforehand can give you clues about what to expect.

  3. Virtual Interviews: For remote interviews, the concept of “arriving early” changes. Instead, ensure that your technology is set up and working properly at least 10 minutes before the scheduled time.

  4. Personal Preferences: Some people prefer to arrive early to calm their nerves, while others feel more comfortable arriving just on time. Know yourself and what works best for you.

The Psychological Impact of Time

Time perception can be a funny thing. When you’re nervous, minutes can feel like hours, and waiting in a reception area can feel like an eternity. This is why arriving slightly early can be beneficial—it gives you a buffer to adjust to the environment and calm your nerves. On the other hand, arriving too early can amplify anxiety, as you may start overthinking or second-guessing yourself.

The Interviewer’s Perspective

From the interviewer’s point of view, a candidate who arrives too early can be seen as inconsiderate, especially if they are in the middle of another meeting or task. Conversely, a candidate who arrives late may be perceived as disorganized or uninterested. Striking the right balance shows that you are considerate of the interviewer’s time and are well-prepared.

What to Do If You Arrive Too Early

If you find yourself arriving more than 15 minutes early, consider waiting in your car or a nearby coffee shop until it’s closer to the scheduled time. This allows you to avoid the awkwardness of sitting in the reception area for an extended period.

What to Do If You’re Running Late

If you realize you’re going to be late, it’s crucial to communicate with the interviewer as soon as possible. Call or email them to let them know your estimated arrival time and apologize for the inconvenience. Most interviewers will appreciate the heads-up and may be more understanding if you keep them informed.

Conclusion

In summary, arriving 10 to 15 minutes early for an interview is generally the sweet spot. It shows that you are punctual, respectful, and well-prepared, without putting unnecessary pressure on the interviewer. Remember to consider factors like location, company culture, and your own preferences when planning your arrival time. And if things don’t go as planned, communication is key to maintaining a positive impression.

Q: What should I do if I arrive more than 15 minutes early? A: If you arrive more than 15 minutes early, consider waiting in your car or a nearby coffee shop until it’s closer to the scheduled time. This helps avoid making the interviewer feel rushed or inconvenienced.

Q: How should I handle being late for an interview? A: If you’re running late, contact the interviewer immediately to inform them of your estimated arrival time and apologize for the delay. Most interviewers will appreciate the communication and may be more understanding.

Q: Is it better to arrive early or on time for a virtual interview? A: For virtual interviews, it’s best to be ready and logged in at least 10 minutes before the scheduled time. This ensures that your technology is working properly and that you’re prepared to start on time.

Q: How can I calm my nerves if I arrive early? A: If you arrive early and feel nervous, take a few deep breaths, review your notes, or practice your answers to common interview questions. This can help you feel more confident and prepared when the interview begins.

Q: What if the interviewer is late? A: If the interviewer is late, remain patient and use the extra time to review your notes or relax. Avoid showing frustration, as it may reflect poorly on your professionalism.