How to Write a Reschedule Email Like a Pro

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you had to reschedule an important meeting or appointment? It happens to all of us, and let’s face it, it can be a little nerve-wracking. The good news is that with a little bit of tact and some thoughtful words, you can send a reschedule email that is both professional and courteous.

The first step is to acknowledge that the other person’s time is valuable, and to express your regret for any inconvenience caused by the need to reschedule. From there, it’s important to offer a specific alternative date and time that works for both parties. And don’t forget to close your email with a friendly and appreciative tone.

If you’re unsure where to begin, there are plenty of examples available online that you can use as a starting point and edit as needed. With a little bit of effort and attention to detail, you can send a reschedule email that shows respect for the other person’s time and professionalism on your part. So don’t let a scheduling mishap get you down – find the right words, hit send, and move on with confidence.

How to Write a Reschedule Email: A Guide to Clear Communication

Rescheduling appointments or meetings can be a tricky and delicate task, but communicating in a clear and professional way can help alleviate any confusion or frustration. Here are some tips to help you write an effective reschedule email, inspired by the writing style of Tim Ferriss:

1. Start with a clear and concise subject line: The subject line should clearly indicate that the email is regarding a reschedule and include the appointment/meeting’s purpose or topic. For example, “Reschedule: Marketing Campaign Meeting.”

2. Acknowledge and apologize for the inconvenience caused: Start your email with a polite and sincere apology for having to reschedule. Briefly explain the reason for the change and express your regret for any inconvenience caused. This display of empathy can help build trust and strengthen your professional relationship.

3. Propose a few alternative dates and times: Quickly following your apology, offer a few alternative dates and times that work for you and ask the recipient to choose one that fits their schedule. Be sure to suggest timeframes that are reasonable and convenient for both parties to avoid any further scheduling conflicts.

4. Confirm the new date, time, and location: Once a new appointment time has been agreed upon, confirm the details in the email, including the new date, time, and location, if any. This helps minimize any further confusion and ensures that both parties are on the same page.

5. End with a positive note: End your email with a positive and upbeat tone. Express your anticipation in meeting them and thank them for their understanding and flexibility. Additionally, consider offering a small token of appreciation, such as buying them a cup of coffee during your meeting, to further strengthen your relationship.

In summary, a clear, professional, and polite reschedule email can help reduce confusion and frustration when rearranging important appointments or meetings. By acknowledging the inconvenience caused, offering alternative dates and times, confirming the new arrangement, and expressing gratitude, you can effectively communicate the rescheduling changes and maintain a positive professional relationship.

7 Sample Reschedule Emails for Different Reasons

Rescheduling a Job Interview

Dear [Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a rescheduling of our job interview, which was scheduled for [Date] at [Time]. Unfortunately, a personal emergency has come up, and I will not be able to make it for the interview.

I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause, and I would appreciate if we could reschedule for a later date that is convenient for you.

Please let me know if there are any possible dates and times that you are available so we can reschedule our interview as soon as possible.

Thank you for your understanding, and I look forward to hearing back from you.

Best regards, [Your Name]

Rescheduling a Business Meeting

Dear [Name],

I am writing to request a rescheduling of our business meeting which was scheduled for [Date] at [Time]. Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances, I am unable to attend the meeting as planned.

I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause, and I was wondering if we could reschedule for a later date that is convenient for both of us.

Please let me know your availability so we can arrange a meeting at a mutually convenient date and time.

Thank you for your understanding, and I look forward to hearing back from you.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Rescheduling a Doctor Appointment

Dear [Name],

I am writing to request to reschedule my doctor appointment that is scheduled on [Date] at [Time]. Due to unforeseen circumstances, I am unable to attend the appointment as planned.

I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause, and I was hoping if I could schedule a new appointment on a date and time that is convenient for you.

Please let me know if there are any available slots for the next appointment.

Thank you for your understanding, and I apologize once again for the inconvenience this may cause.

Best regards, [Your Name]

Rescheduling a Job Training Session

Dear [Name],

I am writing to request a rescheduling of the job training session for [Employee Name], which was scheduled for [Date] at [Time]. Unfortunately, due to a sudden family emergency, [Employee Name] cannot attend the training session as planned.

I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause, and I would appreciate it if we could reschedule the training session for a later date that is convenient for you.

Please let me know if there are any possible dates and times that you are available so we can reschedule the training session.

Thank you for your understanding, and I look forward to hearing back from you.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Rescheduling a Business Trip

Dear [Name],

I am writing to request a rescheduling of my planned business trip to [Location], which was scheduled for [Date] to [Date]. Unfortunately, my family has had an unexpected medical emergency, and I will not be able to travel as planned.

I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause, and I would appreciate it if we could reschedule the trip for a later date that is convenient for you.

Please let me know if there are any possible dates and times that are suitable for our business trip.

Thank you for your understanding, and I hope to hear from you soon.

Best regards, [Your Name]

Rescheduling an Exam

Dear [Name],

I am writing to request a rescheduling of my [Name of Exam], which is scheduled for [Date] at [Time] at [Location]. Unfortunately, due to an unexpected event, I will not be able to take the exam as planned.

I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause, and I was wondering if I could reschedule the exam for a later date that is convenient for you.

Please let me know if there are any available slots for the next exam.

Thank you for your understanding, and I apologize once again for any inconvenience this may cause.

Best regards, [Your Name]

Rescheduling an Event

Dear [Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a rescheduling of our planned event, which was scheduled for [Date] at [Time] at [Location]. Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances, I am unable to attend the event as planned.

I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause, and I would appreciate if we could postpone the event to a later date that is convenient for everyone.

Please let me know if there are any possible dates and times that you have available for the event so we can reschedule it as soon as possible.

Thank you for your understanding, and I look forward to hearing back from you.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Tips for Writing a Professional and Effective Reschedule Email

Rescheduling appointments or meetings can be necessary at times due to various reasons such as unforeseen circumstances, emergencies, or conflicts in schedules. However, it is essential to communicate the changes appropriately and professionally to avoid any misunderstandings and show that you value the other person’s time. Here are some tips on how to write a reschedule email:

  • Make the subject line clear and concise. Use keywords such as “Reschedule,” “Change of Date,” or “Postponement” to grab the recipient’s attention and let them know the purpose of the email.
  • Begin by apologizing for any inconvenience that the rescheduling may cause. Show empathy and understanding, and thank them for their patience and cooperation.
  • Explain the reason for rescheduling briefly. Be honest, transparent, and straightforward. Avoid vague or misleading reasons, and provide as much detail as necessary without going into unnecessary detail.
  • Suggest new date(s) and time(s) that are convenient for both parties. Provide alternatives that show your willingness to accommodate their schedule. Consider the time zones, geographical locations, and any other factors that might affect the other person’s availability.
  • Confirm their availability and ask for their agreement on the new date/time. Make it easy for them to reply by providing clear instructions and a deadline to respond.
  • End with a positive note and reiterate your appreciation for their understanding. Express your desire to meet them soon, and let them know that you are looking forward to the rescheduled meeting/appointment.
  • Proofread and edit the email carefully. Check for typos, grammar errors, or any confusing language. Use a professional tone, and avoid using slang, emojis, or anything that might be inappropriate for the context.
  • Follow up if necessary. If you don’t receive a response or get a conflicting schedule, reach out to them again politely. Be persistent, but not pushy, and show your commitment to finding a solution that works for both parties.

By following these tips, you can write an effective reschedule email that shows respect, professionalism, and clear communication. Remember that unexpected things happen, and it is okay to reschedule, as long as you handle it correctly.

FAQs on How to Write a Reschedule Email


What is the purpose of a reschedule email?

A reschedule email is used to inform someone of a change in an event’s schedule or a change of meeting or appointment time or date.

What should I include in my reschedule email?

Your reschedule email should include a polite, clear message that explains the reason for the change, the new date and time, and any other relevant information about the event or meeting.

How do I start my reschedule email?

You can start your reschedule email by thanking the recipient for their time and understanding in advance, and being upfront about the reason for the change of schedule.

How do I politely reschedule a meeting?

You can politely reschedule a meeting by offering an apology for any inconvenience the change might cause and requesting a new date and time that works for both you and the recipient.

What should I avoid when writing a reschedule email?

Avoid being too informal or unprofessional, making excuses or being vague about the reason for the change, and not following up with a confirmation of the rescheduled event or meeting.

Is it important to respond promptly to a reschedule email?

Yes, it’s essential to respond promptly to a reschedule email because it shows that you’re respectful of the recipient’s time, and it helps to keep everyone on the same page regarding the revised schedule.

How can I end my reschedule email politely?

You can end your reschedule email politely by expressing appreciation for the recipient’s time and understanding and reiterating the new details for the event or meeting and any next steps, if applicable.

A Few Parting Words

And that, dear reader, is how you write a reschedule email. The key is to be clear and concise, while also being polite and professional. Remember, things happen, plans change, but with the right email, you can still get back on track. Thanks for reading and I hope you found this article helpful. Until next time, happy rescheduling!