Punctuality is a crucial factor in any interview, as it reflects your reliability and time management skills. Starting the meeting with “Sorry I’m late”, sends an immediate red flag to potential employers, suggesting that you may struggle with timekeeping, an essential skill in the business world. In deadline-driven environments, where timeliness is key to success, arriving late to an interview can suggest you may not prioritise commitments effectively, which could hurt your chances of landing the role.

A well-known saying goes, "Early is on time, on time is late, and late is unacceptable." This principle is especially true in professional settings. Arriving early for an interview demonstrates respect for the interviewer’s time and allows you to compose yourself before the conversation begins. It also shows that you are organised and committed, setting a positive tone from the outset.

Starting an interview or any meeting with "sorry I'm late" undermines your professionalism. It creates a negative first impression, one that may be hard to recover from, regardless of your qualifications. By prioritising punctuality, you convey that you understand the importance of deadlines, punctuality and accountability, all critical attributes in any business setting.

If you’d like to explore this further, get in touch today.