How to get out of work for an interview!

The dreaded moment. You have just received a phone call to say that you have been invited for an interview – but how on earth do you get out of work?

The most important thing you need to remember is that you have the right to look for another job. Nobody can expect you to stay in one job for your whole life if your decision is to leave. It is at the same time difficult to change roles! Now, not everyone works for an understanding and supportive company. Which is even more reason to be proud of your decision to take control of your career.

In an ideal world you shouldn’t have to lie about interviewing for another job, but it’s not that simple. You might even be worried about losing your current role if someone was to find out. If that is the case, then telling a small white lie is the best option. A lot of us use sick leave for interviews, but remember your employer is entitled to ask for a letter from your doctor to confirm your illness. (You do not want to end up in the wrong kind of exit interview!)

These are some of the most popular excuses for leaving work:

• Sickness / Illness / Injured
• Attending a medical appointment/opticians /dentist
• Family emergency: Pet was sick / has an appointment
• External meeting away from the office with a client (tricky one!)
• Relative or child was sick
• Maintenance issue at home, plumber / decorating / electrician
• Car broke down / bad travel routes (suitable for early interview appointments)

There are a couple of ground rules when it comes to lying about leaving work. Firstly, let your manager know ASAP. Most interviews will be arranged at least a day in advance so make sure you inform the relevant people. If possible, offer to come in early or stay later to make up the time lost.

Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for most lies to come back and bite you on the behind. Karma is a tricky mistress, and if you create too much of an exotic lie or do not keep to the story, people will find out. Try and stick with an excuse that is easy to remember, does not invite many questions and do your best to arrange the interview time so you are not missing a lot of work.

TIP: If possible, use annual leave - this is for your career, so it deserves your attention! The ideal situation is to have a full day to prepare for the interview and to not turn up rushed and messy. But if you can only get away from work for a few hours, preparation is key!

An overly detailed excuse might sound fake, even if it is not. A simple excuse is best, but remember not to tell anyone at work. Now, we know the excitement of an interview with your dream brand can be hard to contain, but telling anyone at work can run the risk of it going public. If, unfortunately, you do not get the new job, it can create a very uncomfortable work environment.

Skip the cliché excuses.
Avoid overused lines like dentist appointments or vague personal errands. These tend to sound suspicious if used too often, especially in the age of hybrid work, where flexibility is more common.

Use remote work to your advantage.
If you’re already working remotely or have the option to do so occasionally, this is a great opportunity to schedule an interview discreetly. Block out time in your calendar as “unavailable” or “appointment” - something vague but professional.

Leverage video interviews.
Thanks to video calls becoming the norm, you can now interview from the comfort of your home. Book out an hour as a “virtual meeting” and ensure you’re in a quiet, private space. No need for dramatic sick days when tech is on your side.

Be smart with your calendar.
Schedule interviews early in the morning, over lunch, or toward the end of the day — times when you’re less likely to be missed. If you’re in the office, consider booking half a day off or using flexible hours to duck out without drama.

Keep it low-key.
Resist the urge to dress overly formal if your usual office style is casual, especially if you're attending in person. A sudden wardrobe shift is a classic giveaway.

Don’t get caught out and about.
If you do have to leave the house, stay low-profile. Bumping into a colleague while heading into an interview building could make for a very awkward Monday morning.

Leaving work for an interview you are 100% invested in is a good lie to make. Be prepared for the interview process and remember, if second interviews are required, you may need another excuse!

(You’ll be glad you did when you’re sitting in that sweet, new job.)