'Don't choose 11 am': Career coach shares 10 reasons why this interview slot may work against you

Career coach Simon Ingari has sparked discussion online with an unconventional piece of interview advice: avoid choosing the 11 am interview slot if a recruiter gives you the freedom to decide. While many candidates focus on preparing answers and polishing their resumes, Ingari argues that timing can quietly influence the interview experience. In a post on X, he explained why mid-morning interviews may put applicants at a disadvantage and why an earlier slot could offer a better chance to make a lasting impression.

According to Simon Ingari, the 11 am interview slot comes with several practical drawbacks that candidates often overlook. Sharing his thoughts on X, the career coach explained that this timing usually falls between the first and second interview slots of the day, making it easier for interviewers to compare candidates who appeared earlier.

He also pointed out that by 11 am, interviewers may already be thinking about wrapping up the morning schedule before lunch. That mindset, he suggested, can sometimes make conversations feel more rushed than they would earlier in the day.

Why 11 am interviews can become difficult

Ingari further explained that mid-morning interviews are more vulnerable to unexpected disruptions. Last-minute meetings, changes in schedules, or interviews running longer than expected can all delay the conversation before it even begins.

If earlier interviews exceed their allotted time, candidates scheduled at 11 am are more likely to experience delays. By the time the interview finally starts, interviewers may already be conscious of the approaching lunch break, leaving less room for relaxed discussions.

Less flexibility if the interview goes well

The career coach also highlighted that 11 am is a commonly chosen interview slot, meaning several candidates may be competing during the same period.

If interviewers fall behind schedule, they may shorten the discussion to stay on track. Ingari noted that this timing also offers less flexibility to extend the conversation, even if the interview is going particularly well. Any follow-up discussions among hiring managers may also be postponed until after lunch, potentially delaying decisions.

Why earlier morning interviews may work better

Instead of opting for 11 am, Ingari recommended choosing an earlier morning slot whenever possible, ideally between 8 am and 9:30 am.

According to him, interviewers are generally fresher during those hours, schedules are less likely to have been disrupted, and conversations can often unfold in a calmer, less hurried environment. Candidates may also receive more focused attention before the day's meetings and interviews begin to pile up.

Timing is only one part of the process

While Simon Ingari believes interview timing can influence the overall experience, it is only one factor among many. Preparation, relevant skills, confidence, communication and the ability to solve problems remain the biggest contributors to interview success.

Internet reacts

The post drew mixed reactions, with many users arguing that interview timing matters far less than preparation and performance. One user shared a personal experience, saying they were offered interview slots at 9 am, 10 am and 11 am, chose 11 am, and still got the job. They added that "the most important thing" is how a candidate presents themselves.

Another commenter strongly disagreed with the advice. They said they had landed multiple jobs after interviewing at random times, including 11 am, and insisted that if candidates "show up prepared" and present their best selves, the timing becomes irrelevant. A third user, who said they regularly conduct interviews, argued that their schedule is so packed they "barely know what time it is." They even suggested that 8 am, especially at companies with a 9 am start time, may be a less ideal interview slot than 11 am.