How To Respond to Employer Interview Requests

Recruiters and hiring managers rarely call candidates anymore, so if you’re on the hunt for a job, you should be keeping an eye on your inbox.

But what do you do when you finally get an email asking you to schedule an interview? It can be a bit daunting trying to figure out what tone to use, what information is necessary, and what etiquette to follow.

We put together this guide to show you what an email with an interview request looks like, how you should respond, and an email template to follow. We’ll throw in a few email writing tips, too, so you can stand out when you send your response.

Key Takeaways:

  • Your response to an interview request should be prompt and professional.
  • Provide any necessary detail by carefully reading the interview request.
  • Proofread your email before sending and hit “reply all” to make sure everyone in the email chain gets it.

Here’s a step-by-step process for how to respond to an interview request email:

  1. Open with gratitude and enthusiasm. Right off the bat, you want to express how thankful you are for the opportunity and how excited you are for the chance to interview. You don’t have to go overboard —a quick thank you and a word like “thrilled” will suffice.
  2. Provide availability. Most recruiters and hiring managers will give you a few different windows of times to choose from. Some might request that you suggest times. Regardless, clearly indicate what days and times work best for you. If no times indicated in the invitation email work for you, feel free to make additional suggestions. It’s best to work your schedule around the interview slots offered, though, if you really care about the opportunity.
  3. Provide requested details. Most interview invitations also come with instructions to follow for per-interview admin-type stuff. You might have to email your resume, Cover Letter, references, etc. to additional people or answer a few questions. Make sure that you read the invitation request clearly so that you don’t forget to include something that they asked you for.
  4. Offer to provide more info at their request. It’s likely that they’ve got everything they need from you, but it’s a polite gesture to offer more details upon request.
  5. Close with gratitude and enthusiasm. In one quick closing line, say thanks again and mention how you’re looking forward to the interview.