How Long to Wait for an Interviewee to Show Up: A Comprehensive Guide
Waiting for an interviewee to show up can be a nerve-wracking experience for both the interviewer and the interviewee. It’s important to establish a clear policy on how long to wait for an interviewee to show up to ensure a smooth and professional process. In this article, we will discuss the factors to consider when determining the appropriate waiting time and provide some tips on how to handle the situation when an interviewee is late.
Factors to Consider When Deciding How Long to Wait
1. Time of the Day: The waiting time can vary depending on the time of the day. For example, it may be acceptable to wait longer for an interviewee to show up in the morning compared to the afternoon or evening.
2. Location of the Interview: If the interview is taking place in a busy city or an area with heavy traffic, it may be reasonable to allow more time for the interviewee to arrive.
3. Pre-arranged Schedule: If the interview was scheduled well in advance, the interviewee may have had more time to plan their travel and should be expected to arrive on time. However, unexpected circumstances can still arise.
4. Reason for Lateness: Understanding the reason for the interviewee’s lateness can help determine the appropriate waiting time. If the delay is due to unforeseen circumstances, such as traffic or an emergency, it may be more lenient to wait longer.
Recommended Waiting Times
1. Morning Interviews: Allow a minimum of 15 minutes for an interviewee to show up. If the interview is scheduled for 9 am, it would be reasonable to wait until 9:15 am.
2. Afternoon Interviews: In the afternoon, give the interviewee a 10-minute buffer. For a 2 pm interview, wait until 2:10 pm.
3. Evening Interviews: If the interview is scheduled for 5 pm, wait until 5:10 pm. However, it’s important to consider that evening interviews may have a higher likelihood of lateness due to the end of the workday.
Handling Lateness
1. Communicate with the Interviewee: If the interviewee is running late, encourage them to communicate with you as soon as possible. This allows you to adjust your schedule accordingly.
2. Reschedule if Necessary: If the interviewee is significantly late, consider rescheduling the interview to a more convenient time for both parties.
3. Stay Professional: Regardless of the reason for the lateness, maintain a professional demeanor. Avoid showing frustration or anger, as this can create a negative impression.
4. Prepare for the Interview: While waiting for the interviewee, use the time to prepare for the interview. Review the candidate’s resume, notes, and any other relevant materials.
In conclusion, determining how long to wait for an interviewee to show up depends on various factors, including the time of the day, location, and the reason for the lateness. By considering these factors and following the recommended waiting times, you can ensure a smooth and professional interview process. Remember to communicate with the interviewee and stay professional, even in the face of unexpected delays.
