Read Syndi's bio.
Skip to main content
Skip to footer
Business and Social Etiquette Expert: Syndi Seid
Expected arrival times for job interviews?
Q: I'm a stickler for being on time, and for job interviews I like to arrive early. Sometimes this can be awkward if they are still interviewing another candidate. Is there a standard arrival time expected for job interviews?
A: Whether for a job interview or any other meeting, a person should always arrive on time, if not early. Arriving early allows you to get properly settled — to perhaps hang up your coat, get a drink of water, meet others, review information for the meeting. The aim is to be relaxed by the time the meeting actually begins.
In my seminars I tell the story of how strongly Vince Lombardi, the former football coach for the Greenbay Packers, believed in being early to appointments. It is said whenever he called for practice to begin at 9:00 a.m., he expected all the players to be on the field, in full gear, ready to begin practice at 8:50 a.m., which was ten minutes early. And when a player would show up at 8:55 a.m., which was still five minutes before the hour, he was considered late and fined.
Remember to plan on being early whenever making your travel plans by foot, by car, or public transportation.
NOTE: For further details on how best to ensure being on time, see my March 2004 "Etiquette Tip of the Month" newsletter for tips on pedestrian and driving etiquette and being on time to meetings. You can find it at http://www.advancedetiquette.com/backissues
In my seminars I tell the story of how strongly Vince Lombardi, the former football coach for the Greenbay Packers, believed in being early to appointments. It is said whenever he called for practice to begin at 9:00 a.m., he expected all the players to be on the field, in full gear, ready to begin practice at 8:50 a.m., which was ten minutes early. And when a player would show up at 8:55 a.m., which was still five minutes before the hour, he was considered late and fined.
Remember to plan on being early whenever making your travel plans by foot, by car, or public transportation.
NOTE: For further details on how best to ensure being on time, see my March 2004 "Etiquette Tip of the Month" newsletter for tips on pedestrian and driving etiquette and being on time to meetings. You can find it at http://www.advancedetiquette.com/backissues
Some issues discussed in the expert forum are complex and continually changing.We recommend you consult a professional advisor about your specific circumstances, needs, and applicable laws. More details.