How to Respond to an Interview Request With Examples

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To maximize your chances of getting a job, it is important that you create a positive and professional impression at each step of the application process. This includes the way you respond to an interview request. If you have been asked to come in for an interview, you should respond promptly and properly. This article will show you how to respond to an interview request.

Why your response to an interview request is important

An interview request is a verbal or written communication from an employer that invites you to an interview. The way you respond to an interview request matters. 

Here are the main reasons why your response to an interview request is important:

  • Responding to a request in writing gives you documentation of your interview.
  • You can use your response to find out logistical details like the date, time and place of the interview and give the recruiter any relevant details that they might not have. 
  • You can use your response to demonstrate your professionalism and etiquette skills. 
  • A prompt and appropriate response can improve your chances of being hired. 

How to respond to an interview request

Learning how to respond to a recruiter’s request for an interview can enable you to make an effective response. 

Consider using the following steps to structure your reply: 

1. First, respond promptly to an invitation for an interview

Once you receive your interview request, it is important to respond promptly to demonstrate good etiquette and your interest in the job. Consider responding to an interview request on the business day that you receive it. 

2. Next, read and make sure you understand any instructions you’ve been given

Typically, an interview request has a few instructions for an interviewee. Make sure that you read these instructions carefully and follow them properly in your response. 

3. Then, compose your response using the same format as the interview request

Use the same format as the interview request for your response, unless the recruiter has asked you to use a different format. For example, if the recruiter has sent an email to your professional email address, you should reply directly to the recruiter via that same email thread. This gives the recruiter a frame of reference for your response, and it is more conscientious than using a completely different method to send your response.

Template for a response to an interview request

Your message should contain certain important elements. 

Here are the items that you should include in your response:

  • A formal salutation that uses the recruiter’s courtesy title and last name, such as ‘Dear Ms. Waterstone,’
  • Your appreciation for the interview request and your acceptance
  • Any logistical questions you need to ask
  • A request for confirmation of any scheduling details for the interview
  • A reiteration of your interest in the job
  • A formal closing that includes your full name, email address and mobile number 

Examples of responses to an interview request

You can use the following examples to structure your response to an interview request: 

Example of a simple email response to an interview request

Subject: Assistant Editor Position, Stan Field

Dear Ms. Broderick, 

I am writing to accept the interview request for the Assistant Editor position. Thank you very much for this opportunity. I look forward to meeting with Macy Mueller at 10 a.m. at the downtown address of Stellar Publishing on August 5. 

I am confident that my skill set and academic background would be an asset to your organization. Please feel free to contact me if you need any further information before the interview. 

Sincerely,
Stan Field
sfield@gmail.com
554-333-1236

Example of an email response with logistical questions

Subject: Account Analyst Position, Miriam Swan 

Dear Mr. Avery,

Thank you very much for the interview invitation for the Account Analyst position at Keen Associates. I look forward to my conversation with Hilda Roberts on November 8. 

When you have a moment, please let me know if the interview will take place at your midtown office and also the scheduled time. 

I am certain that my accounting experience makes me a suitable candidate for this role. If you require any further details from me before the interview, please let me know.

Best regards,
Miriam Swan
swanmiriam@protonmail.com
555-545-6787

Example of an email response for a Skype interview request

Subject: Account Executive Position, Abe Sawyer

Dear Ms. McDougal,

I am very excited about being invited to interview for the Account Executive position at Fargo Marketing. Thank you very much for this opportunity. I look forward to our virtual Skype meeting on March 30, per your interview request.   

Would it be possible to confirm the interview time when you have a moment? I can be available to meet virtually with you anytime between 9 a.m. and 12 p.m. 

With my academic and professional background, I believe that I am a good candidate for this role. I look forward to sharing my approach to marketing innovation with you on Tuesday. Please let me know if you need any further details from me. 

Best regards, 
Abe Sawyer
a_sawyer@email.com
555-645-1376

Example of an email response for a phone interview request

Subject: Mechanical Technician Position, Francine Rafe

Dear Mr. Gustaf, 

It was great speaking with you today about interviewing for the Mechanical Technician role, and I really appreciate the opportunity. I am looking forward to our phone interview on Friday, June 15. 

I would be happy to speak with you anytime between 9 a.m. and 12 p.m. Please confirm the time when you have a moment. 

With my interning experience at Mechana, I believe that I can make a positive contribution to your organization. Please do not hesitate to let me know if you need any further information before the interview. 

Sincerely,
Francine Rafe
francinerafe1@protonmail.com
555-010-3465