Arriving late to a job interview can be a critical misstep, according to recent research. A survey of over 1,200 interviewers highlights tardiness as the top turnoff for hiring managers, signaling a lack of time management skills and professionalism.
In the past, interviewers might have granted a grace period of 15 minutes, but in today's fast-paced world, that window has narrowed to just five minutes. This trend holds true for both in-person and virtual interviews.
However, if tardiness is unavoidable, a sincere apology can help salvage the situation. It's essential to acknowledge the lateness, express regret, and swiftly move on to showcasing your suitability for the role.