Should you arrive on time or super early for job interviews?

billyboblewis · Jul 21, 2012

Super early is an imposition on the people interviewing you as they often have other tasks to take care of. It also makes you look a little bit crazy which is not one of the qualites employers look for in an applicant

mdgale · Jul 23, 2012

I arrive about 10-15 minutes early. I come prepared with a current resume printed on professional weight paper. I dress in a business suit and bring one small simple purse and my planner, which contians a BLACK ink pen. I arrive early, as usually there is an official job application to complete before the interview begins.

lovedijah · Jul 23, 2012

I had an interview recently and the other person arrived 30 minutes early (during my interview). The hiring manager was so annoyed and kept going on and on about "This guy is taking it too far. He's just going to have to wait". Awkward. So yeah, 30 minutes is overkill.

I have always arrived early and I just wait in my car until about 10 minutes before. Sort of relaxes me to google random things on my phone before I go in.

GitanoRN, BSN, MSN, RN · Jul 24, 2012

evidently, since i been to several interviews in my nursing career and at present i'm one of several conducting interviews i would say, if you're not familiar where the interview is taking place leave your home 30 minutes earlier. having said that, this allows you time for any accident that you might encounter on the road. moreover, if you get to your destination too early, sit in your car and go over your resume and be prepare to answer any questions that might come up. in addition, take a stroll around the premisses, this will give you a sense of your surroundings and it calms you down. lastly, once in the interview room give your full attention to the interviewer, make sure you don't cross your legs sit-up straight just like your mama' told you. needless to say, regarding your attire, make sure is professional and not your sunday best, wear minimum jewelry and no loud perfume or cologne. wishing all of you that are job hunting the very best in all of your future endeavors....aloha~

amygarside · Jul 25, 2012

I always try to be there at least 10 minutes early. I don't want to be there too early. It makes me feel too nervous and self-conscious.

lsw1956 · Jul 25, 2012

Well, I am a early bird but I would think being ten minutes early would be appropriate.

royhanosn · Jul 25, 2012

all these posts saying the same...be courteous....at least 15 minutes.

no absolutely, no 'like'...use good grammar & plain english (do not use the trendy buzz words of today (listen to your interviewer for their cues), dress for the part, turn off your cell). its called tricks of the trade...

fargasmm, BSN, RN · Feb 18, 2013

Ok, I showed upfor my very first RN job interview a day early today I am worried now that they may take this against me. I read all your tips and was so ready to use it this morning. Any advice or suggestions on what I can say to the managers on my actual interview day??? I feel so bad :{

BluntForceTrauma · Feb 19, 2013

Ok, I showed upfor my very first RN job interview a day early today I am worried now that they may take this against me. I read all your tips and was so ready to use it this morning. Any advice or suggestions on what I can say to the managers on my actual interview day??? I feel so bad :{

It's ok...you're just a little eager!

anashenwrath, ASN, RN · Feb 20, 2013

I almost always overestimate how long it's going to take to get somewhere. I'm convinced the trains are all going to be down, traffic is going to be terrible, Godzilla will attack... I'm just positive I won't get there on time!

But even though I get there early, I never go into the building until about 10-15 minutes early. Find a Dunkin Donuts and bring a book!