3 Tips for how to take time off work for an interview

There’s always a lot of work that goes into preparing for an interview. First, have your questions and answers prepared. Next, get your nerves under control so you can prepare for the interview. Finally, navigate the tricky process of finding time for the actual interview. Usually, that involves taking time off from work. 

In this blog, we will learn some tips for how to take time off work for an interview Here’s what we will be covering:

• Can you take time off work for an interview?

• Should you tell your boss that you’re interviewing?

• 3 tips for discreetly taking time off work for an interview

Can you take time off work for an interview?

One challenge of interviewing for a new job is that the interview will often fall during business hours. This can be a problem if you have other work obligations you must adhere to. One common way to handle these obligations is to take time off work for an interview. However, that in itself can present some challenges, and you may wind up feeling guilty about taking time off.

Here are some things to consider when you are thinking about taking time off work for an interview:

• Personal time. The personal time your job gives you is yours to take for any reason. You don’t need to feel guilty for being vague about those reasons or for taking the time to interview for a new job. 

• Career growth. Wanting growth out of your career is a common goal for a working professional. It’s only natural that you begin seeking opportunities outside your current organization when you aren’t able to achieve your goals there. 

• Job performance. Just because you are interviewing for a new position, that doesn’t mean you won’t still be able to uphold your current obligations. As long as your job performance isn’t suffering from your absence, you have no reason to feel guilty about interviewing for a new position.

Should you tell your boss that you’re interviewing?

Typically, it is not advisable to tell your current boss about an interview. For starters, their knowledge could affect your standing in your current position, especially if you aren’t offered a new position. Once your boss knows you are looking for work elsewhere, they may be hesitant to offer you career growth opportunities or new projects.

Another issue you may run into is that your current boss may throw obstacles in your way if they know you are interviewing for a new job. They may make it challenging for you to take off work for an interview or even provide you with a poor reference that could affect your chances of landing a new job.

3 Tips for discreetly taking off work for an interview

Discreetly taking off time at work for an interview is often the best option. Here are some of the top tips that can help you navigate this tricky process at work:

1. Keep it vague

Try to be vague when you take off from work. If you typically explain why you need the time off for other occasions but refuse to disclose that information when you have an interview, you might raise suspicions. Be vague without lying.

2. Flexible schedule

Consider working your interview around your schedule. Sometimes, it is possible to schedule an interview before or after work or even during your lunch break.

3. Be mindful

Be respectful to your current employer and try to plan ahead. Schedule your interview on a day when you know you won’t be putting your current employer in a bind due to an increase in workload due to your absence.

Now that you know how to take time off work for an interview, it’s time to prepare for it! Visit our interview prep services page to learn how we can help.

Key takeaways

1. If you feel guilty about taking time off work, remember that personal time is yours to take, a desire for professional growth is common, and you will still provide your current employer with value while you look for a new job.

2. Most of the time, it is best to avoid telling your boss you are interviewing for a new job because it can negatively affect your current position.

3. When taking time off work for an interview, be discreet, avoid lying, plan ahead, and try to work around your schedule as much as possible.