I messed up and I think it’s going to cost me an interview.

Anonymous

June 1,2022 at 1:35PM UTC

Welcome to Fairygodboss!

We’re the largest online career community helping women achieve their career goals. Gain access to articles, jobs, events, and a supportive network of women and allies. Membership is free, always.

I messed up and I think it’s going to cost me an interview. Background: I applied for an internal position within my company. I carefully worded an introductory email to the hiring manager and the recruiter, which got my noticed. Yesterday I received an email requesting a phone call to discuss the position today. I misread the email and thought she meant Thursday. I’m working 60 hours this week and I’m utterly exhausted. I emailed the recruiter and throughly apologized for my mistake but I think I might come off as flighty and unorganized. Someone please tell me this very human mistake won’t cost me the interview I so desperately want.

Why women love us:

Daily articles on career topics
Jobs at companies dedicated to hiring more women
Advice and support from an authentic community
Events that help you level up in your career
Free membership, always

7 comments

Share your insight

Join an authentic community that helps women support each other at work. Share your professional experience or ask for advice — you can even post anonymously.

7 Comments

Join the conversation

AnonymousJune 1,2022 at 2:06PM UTC
It honestly could go either way. A lot of times people are understanding. I had a virtual interview scheduled one day and my daughter ended up staying home from daycare because she was sick and I completely spaced on the interview. The guy had emailed me mid-meeting asking if I was joining. I didn’t see it til later in the day and I panicked. I fully expected them to move on but explained the situation. They were understanding and I still had a couple more interviews. In the end the job turned out to not be a great fit. But I would try not to stress too much and just explain what happened and be apologetic and ask if they would be able to reschedule.
AnonymousJune 1,2022 at 3:12PM UTC
It is indeed human to make mistakes; that being said, I would hope that if you think you are qualified for this position and you have the skills to back that up, most people would be understanding. Did the recruiter get back to you yet? Follow up with another email stating if the position has not yet been filled, you would like the opportunity to have a phone interview, and this one you will be available. Many of us are working overtime and are exhausted; recognize it, but don't make it an excuse. If it comes off as an excuse, you may be seen as being too exhausted and lacking the focus to do the new position.
AnonymousJune 1,2022 at 5:32PM UTC
So the recruiter just sent a new invitation but didn’t reply to my email. I don’t know what that means, but I’m grateful for the second chance.
AnonymousJune 1,2022 at 3:27PM UTC
Take a breath. This is a minor human mistake with your own company so I wouldn't panic.
Barb HansenJune 1,2022 at 3:29PM UTC
The issue is not that you misread an email, the issue is how is the recruiter and the hiring manager going to take it. You don't know.
Let's hope that they are both graceful and understand that people misread emails and they will happily reschedule your interview.
On the other hand, they can be petty and decide that one mistake will cost you that interview and if they choose to be that petty, you probably don't want to work for that hiring manager.
LaurenJune 1,2022 at 3:47PM UTC
People are human and miss interviews. To own it and apologize shows you respect them. If they can’t get past that, take it as a red flag and run. I used to recruiter at the C-level and we knew these things happen, especially with job demands, etc. Keep positive!!!
LorraineJune 1,2022 at 5:51PM UTC
It's a mistake that you should not dwell on. It happens to all of us. If they are truly interested in you, then rescheduling will not be an issue. They would recognize that you are a hard worker and committed by the hours you work and by your explanation. You owned it, you explained it and ball is in their court. :-) Relax and know that you are valued!