Dear Cindy – Call in Sick for an Interview?

I read the article about calling in sick, and was wondering what a person should do when it's an interview, not a job. If competition is stiff, should you not go? After all, an interview doesn't usually last all day, like a day on the job.

Sincerely,

Wondering

Your point that competition may be stiff is valid, but remember that during an interview you're also supposed to put on a good show and be better than other applicants. You're supposed to look good, speak well, and show energy and confidence. The interviewer may think you're a real trouper for showing up, but that's not all s/he may think. The interviewer may be appalled that you came and are hacking and sneezing in her/his face, or are annoyed because you are unable to speak coherently because you're half asleep from cold medications, or irritated because can't speak above a whisper due to a sore throat.

So if you're not that sick, and can think and speak clearly, go. You may want to apologize to your interviewer and tell him or her that you have a cold, so will refrain from shaking hands. If you are really sick, call and explain, and ask when would be a good time to reschedule.