Is a 9am interview too early?

Is a 9 AM Interview Too Early? Weighing the Pros and Cons

The email arrives: “We’d like to schedule your interview for 9:00 AM on Tuesday.” For some, this might elicit a feeling of dread. Is a 9 AM interview too early? The answer, as with most things in life, is nuanced and depends heavily on individual preferences and circumstances. While the popular opinion often leans towards a slightly later slot, such as the commonly preferred 10 AM or 11 AM window, a 9 AM interview might actually be strategically advantageous in certain situations.

The Case Against the Early Start:

The main argument against a 9 AM interview boils down to preparedness and peak performance. Waking up earlier than usual to ensure adequate preparation – reviewing notes, selecting the perfect outfit, mapping the route – can feel rushed and stressful. This pressure can then carry over into the interview itself, potentially hindering your ability to articulate your skills and experience effectively.

Consider the logistical hurdles:

• Commute: Early morning commutes can be unpredictable, with traffic and public transport delays adding to the pre-interview anxiety.
• Brain Fog: Not everyone is a morning person. It can take some time to fully wake up and feel mentally sharp, potentially leaving you less alert and responsive during the interview.
• Preparation Time: Rushing through your morning routine can mean overlooking crucial details, like a last-minute review of the company website or a final practice run of your elevator pitch.

The Unexpected Advantages of a 9 AM Start:

However, dismissing a 9 AM interview outright might be a mistake. There are some compelling arguments in its favor:

• Fresher Interviewer: While the interviewer may also be dealing with the early morning, they are likely to be fresher and more focused at 9 AM than later in the day, when they might be battling meeting fatigue and a growing to-do list. A focused interviewer is more likely to give you their undivided attention and engage meaningfully with your responses.
• Less Competition: Some candidates will automatically decline an early time slot, viewing it as inconvenient. By embracing the 9 AM interview, you might find yourself facing less direct competition for the interviewer’s attention and positive impression.
• The “First Impression” Advantage: Starting the day on a positive note with a strong candidate interview can set a positive tone for the hiring manager’s entire day. This subtle advantage could subtly influence their overall perception of you.
• Freeing Up Your Day: Completing the interview early allows you to free up the rest of your day for other tasks, whether it’s researching the company further, preparing for other applications, or simply relaxing and de-stressing after the experience.

Ultimately, the decision rests with you.

Before accepting or rejecting a 9 AM interview time, consider the following:

• Your Personal Preferences: Are you a morning person or a night owl?
• The Distance to the Interview Location: How much travel time do you need to factor in?
• Your Preparation Style: How much time do you typically need to prepare adequately?
• Your Stress Tolerance: Are you able to handle the pressure of an early morning schedule?

If you know that an early start will negatively impact your performance, politely request a slightly later time slot. Most employers are understanding and willing to accommodate reasonable requests. However, if you feel confident in your ability to perform well, a 9 AM interview might just be the opportunity to make a memorable and positive first impression. It’s all about understanding your own strengths and weaknesses and strategizing accordingly to put your best foot forward.