How to Respond to an Interview Invitation Email
What does an 'interview invitation email' mean?
An interview invitation email is a message from a potential employer inviting you to come in for a job interview. They have reviewed your resume and application, and would like to meet with you in person to discuss the role in more detail and assess your candidacy.
Responding professionally to an interview invitation is very important, as it is another opportunity to make a good impression. Your response can influence the interviewer's perception of you before you even meet.
The best 3 ways to respond to an Interview Invitation Email
- Express your appreciation for the opportunity. For example, you can say something like "Thank you for your consideration and the invitation to interview for this role." Show your enthusiasm and interest.
- Confirm your availability and flexibility. Mention your availability for a phone or in-person interview and your willingness to accommodate the interviewer's schedule. For example, "I am available this week from Monday to Friday for a phone call or in-person interview at your convenience."
- Reiterate your interest and passion for the work. Briefly reinforce why you're excited about the role and company to convey your motivation. For example, you can say something like "I am very enthusiastic about the potential opportunity to contribute to your team. I believe my experience aligns well with your needs."
What are the considerations when responding to an Interview Invitation Email?
Some things to consider:
- Reply promptly, within 24 hours of receiving the email. This shows strong interest and enthusiasm.
- Be polite and courteous in your reply. Open with a proper salutation like "Dear [Name]" and close with "Regards/Sincerely".
- Confirm the specific details of the interview including date, time, location, and who you will be meeting with. Ask any clarifying questions you may have.
- Double check for any typos or grammatical errors before sending your email. Get a friend or family member to review if possible.
- Express excitement for the opportunity and organization. But do not be insincere in your enthusiasm.
- Ask about next steps in the process and when you can expect to hear from them again. This conveys your professional motivation.
Specific examples of responding to an Interview Invitation Email
Case 1: The interviewer invites you to come in to meet with the team next Wednesday at 3 pm.
You can reply:
Dear [Interviewer's Name],
Thank you for your invitation to interview for the [Role Name] position at [Company Name] next Wednesday at 3 pm. I am very enthusiastic about this opportunity and look forward to discussing the role in more detail.
I will adjust my schedule to make myself available at the requested time. Please let me know if there are any other specifics I should be aware of for the visit. I appreciate your consideration and look forward to meeting with you and your team.
Regards,
[Your Name]
Case 2: The interviewer invites you for a phone interview with two managers and asks for your availability.
You can reply:
Dear [Interviewer's Name],
Thank you for the invitation to have a phone interview for the [Role Name] position at [Company Name]. Speaking with yourself and your managers about this opportunity would be my pleasure.
I am available for a phone call on both Thursday and Friday of this week from 9 am to 5 pm. Please let me know a day and time that suits your schedule and I will make myself available. I look forward to our conversation and discussing my experience and passion for [industry/company mission].
Thank you again for your consideration. I look forward to hearing from you about next steps.
Regards,
[Your Name]
Summary
In summary, take every opportunity to convey your enthusiasm, passion and professional motivation in the interview process. Responding promptly and appropriately to an interview invitation email will get you off on the right foot. Be flexible, courteous and focused on clarifying details. Let your interest and positivity shine through. Make sure each interaction leaves a great impression and moves you one step closer to your goal. You've got this! Now go get that interview and best of luck!