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There are several options: Early in the morning. If you have a flex schedule and you don’t have to show up at work at a set time (e.g., 8 AM), it’s an excellent option. You could do the interview in the morning and then stay late to finish work in the evening all while flying under the radar. During lunchtime.
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- Overview
- What to consider when you can't get time off for an interview
- Steps to take when you can't get time off for an interview
- Tips for trying to get time off for an interview
Searching for a new job while you already have a job is often the best strategy to ensure you have continuous employment. However, you may not always be able to get time off from work for an interview. Some prospective employers expect to meet with you during normal business hours, so you may need to plan how you can address the situation at your current workplace before you begin your job search.
In this article, we share ideas and strategies to help you plan for an interview if you can't get time off from your current job.
You may want to maintain your current job
An interview with a potential employer is still not a formal job offer. Finding a new position can take time, and you don't want to jeopardize the job you already have for the sake of one that is only a possibility. Do everything you can to maintain your integrity with your current employer while still pursuing new opportunities.
You don't need to feel guilty
There are many reasons for wanting to find a new job. As long as you continue to fulfill the responsibilities of your current position as you seek different employment, you have no reason to feel that you are doing something wrong. While you don't need to be open about your job search, once you have a new position, you can amicably give notice of your leaving and stay on good terms with your employer for future job references.
You can use personal time
When you work hard and dutifully perform the tasks of your position, it's appropriate to take time off for personal reasons with little or no explanation. Since many companies now combine sick and personal leave days, all you need to do is schedule the time. If you can set up multiple interviews in one day, you won't need to take as many personal days so close together. Related: Time-Off Request: How To Ask for a Day Off: Tips, Template and Example (Plus Example Form and Template)
1. Speak with the recruiter or hiring manager
Let the hiring manager know that you have a limited amount of time away from your workplace as you plan the interview. They will see that you are committed to performing your job and are faithful to your responsibility as an employee. Ask for another interview time and make every effort to compromise. They may be willing to move the meeting after hearing your honest request. If you're not able to get time off from your current job to go to a job interview, make sure your recruiter knows. You don't want them to call your present employer to ask for a reference until you know you have been offered a new position. Related: How To Prepare for an Interview With a Recruiter
2. Schedule the interview at the best possible time
When you have to plan for an interview during your normal business hours, find the right time to take a personal day or leave for an extended break. Don't miss important meetings or presentations. Find a day when you have a relatively low workload in the timeframe the prospective employer requests. If possible, ask if you can move the time to your lunch hour or at the beginning or end of the workday.
3. Leave with a purpose
If you must leave for an interview during work hours, don't try to sneak away. Act normal and simply leave your desk. You can set an away message on internal chat platforms, so you don't have to answer questions later. Tell co-workers or managers you have an appointment if asked why you are leaving your workstation.
The following suggestions may help you plan an interview during work hours if you find it challenging to get time off:
•Plan your interview early or late in the day. It's easier to come and go from the workplace for an appointment if you simply plan to show up a little later than normal or leave a bit early. You can still be there for most of the business day without much disruption in your routine.
•Ask for a phone or video interview. If you can't get time off from work to actually leave for an interview, ask the hiring manager or recruiter if you can speak over the phone or through a video conference. You may be able to complete the interview in your car (not while driving) or even at home before you have to go to work. Be aware of your surroundings to limit noise and background distractions if you are able to schedule an interview using this method.
•Take an extended lunch break. Going out for lunch is common in the workplace. If you can plan an interview over your lunch break, it may be easier to explain your time away. Many companies accept that professionals who perform their job duties regularly with integrity will take a longer lunch from time to time. Be sure to plan for traffic and travel time if the distance is far from your current work location.
•Be vague but truthful. It's best to avoid deceptive comments about your reason for taking time away. Instead, you can use phrases like "I need to take some time for a personal matter," or "I need to come in a little later tomorrow because I have an appointment." Doing this will help you keep a good rapport with your current employer, even after you leave.
•Try to be discreet about your wardrobe. Most interviews call for more formal business attire than you may wear to work on a regular day. Plan to wear something you can layer or add pieces to after you leave work for the interview. Adding accessories like a jacket may be all that you need to add formality to your outfit. If you must wear a uniform, allow for changing as part of your travel time to the interview.
2. Take the day of the interview off as annual leave. Often, the best approach is to book the day of the interview off as a holiday. If this isn’t possible, consider asking for half a day. Booking agreed leave should significantly diminish any anxieties. It will also allow you to focus solely on your upcoming interview and not on your current ...
Mar 9, 2022 · You will probably feel inclined to give an excuse for this request unless time-shifting is something you often do. Use Comp Time. When you know you will be attending job interviews, volunteer for an extra task, meeting, event, or conference of some kind that involves time outside of regular work hours. Then, see if you can take the extra hours ...
Aug 15, 2024 · 1. Draft a concise explanation. Determine what you want to say before meeting with the employer. Planning your words ahead of time can enable you to communicate effectively. You can contemplate how you want to broach the subject and what explanation you would like to give to the interviewer. Consider keeping your message concise, using one or ...
Jun 9, 2023 · Pack an extra set of clothing. Wearing formal wear to your job with a casual dress code is sure to get the attention of your employer. If you need to go straight from work to your interview, pack your interview outfit in the trunk of your car. Ideally, plan to change so you can assure your appearance is presentable.
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Nov 1, 2019 · Make sure you give yourself enough time to do standard interview prep - do some basic research on the company, make sure you've thoroughly read the job description and are prepared to answer relevant questions, and be ready to ask any questions you have to help you understand if the employer is a good fit. If some of the time slots would be too soon for you to be prepared, it might be better ...
