Too Late to Log In Now: Why Punctuality and Platform Prep Matter in Interviews

Let’s paint a picture. The hiring manager has blocked time out of their already packed day. They have left their desk, taken the elevator up to the 10th floor, dodged the intern with the coffee tray, and made it to the HR boardroom. Laptop open, notes ready, they are sitting there—waiting.

And waiting.

Five minutes go by. No email. No message. No sign of life. Ten minutes later, a cheerful “I’m ready!” pops up from the candidate.

Too bad. You missed the window.

The Harsh Reality of “Willy Nilly” Interviewing

In recruitment, we get it—tech issues happen. Life happens. But so does common courtesy.

There is a world of difference between “Sorry, I’m having trouble connecting, just give me a minute!” and radio silence followed by a late grand entrance. In that 10-minute silence, the hiring manager’s gone from eager to irritated. If there's no upfront apology, not even a whiff of urgency or accountability? Interview over before it began.

This isn't just about etiquette—it’s about respect. Respect for someone else’s time, for the process, and frankly, for your own opportunity.

It’s 2025. Know Your Platform.

Let’s be real—if you’re actively job hunting and you still don’t know how to join a Zoom, Teams, or Google Meet call, we have got bigger problems.

Here’s your checklist:

• Check the platform (Zoom? Teams? Skype? Carrier pigeon?).
• Test your link the day before.
• Ensure your microphone and camera work.
• Log in 5 minutes early. Not 10 minutes late.
• If things go south, communicate. Call, email, shout into the void—just don’t ghost.

Why It Matters

When you show up on time and prepared, you are not just saying “I'm here”—you are saying:

• “I value your time.”
• “I take this seriously.”
• “You can count on me.”

It’s your first impression, and in recruitment, that’s often the only shot you get. Missing an interview without a heads-up isn’t quirky or mysterious—it’s a red flag. And for every no-show, there is a dozen equally qualified candidates who are ready, punctual, and platform-savvy.

Bottom Line?

If you are not ready at the agreed time—or worse, if you ghost entirely—you’re not just burning a bridge. You're setting it on fire and dancing in the ashes while your dream job walks away.

So next time you’ve got an interview scheduled, be early, know your tech, and act like it matters. Because to us—and to the hiring manager climbing ten floors to meet you—it definitely does.

Want more tips from a team that actually cares about your success? David Kennedy Recruitment has your back (and your calendar invite).

Let’s make interviews less awkward—and a whole lot more productive.