How to Write a Meeting Reschedule Email: Tips and Samples

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you had to cancel or reschedule a meeting due to unforeseen circumstances? Well, you are not alone. 

With consistent changes in priorities and schedules, over 85% of professionals have to push meetings to another day or time.

Whether it's a schedule conflict, an unexpected event, or a key member leaving for an impromptu trip, the art of elegantly postponing a meeting is just as important as the meeting itself. But fear not; this task, although daunting, can be navigated with tact and professionalism. And the solution? A well-crafted email. 

This blog post will guide you through the process of writing a polite and effective meeting reschedule email and ensure your communication is clear, considerate, and received in the spirit intended. 

Let's dive in. 

When Is It Necessary to Reschedule a Meeting?

Rescheduling a meeting is a normal part of professional life. Things come up, schedules change, and sometimes, it's just not possible to stick to the original plan.

It's important to know that it's okay to reschedule as long as you handle it professionally. Here are some common reasons you might need to reschedule:

• Meeting Conflict: You have another meeting at the same time.
• Personal Emergency: Something urgent comes up that you can't ignore.
• Lack of Preparation: You realize you won't be ready to contribute meaningfully.
• Technical Issues: Problems with the meeting software or other tech glitches.
• Unavailability of Key Participants: Important people can't make it.

Ultimately, it's okay to reschedule a meeting for the right reasons. Read on to learn what to say if you need to reschedule or cancel an upcoming meeting.

How to Write a Polite Meeting reschedule Email? 

Crafting an email to reschedule a meeting is crucial for maintaining professionalism and minimizing disruption. Here’s how to write a concise and effective email to postpone a meeting:

1. Use a Clear Subject Line

Your subject line should grab attention and make the purpose of your email clear. Opt for straightforward language such as "Rescheduling Our Meeting" rather than apologetic or vague phrases. If you’re reaching out to someone less familiar or outside your organization, include your name and the company to avoid any confusion.

Example Subject Lines:

• "Proposal to Reschedule the XXX Meeting"
• "Meeting Rescheduling Request from [Your Name]"

2. Apologize and Explain the Reason 

Start with a polite greeting, quickly apologize for any inconvenience, and clearly state why you need to reschedule. Keep your explanation brief and to the point, but ensure it's reasonable and shows you’re not making the decision lightly.

3. Suggest New Times

Propose alternative dates and times to demonstrate your commitment to the meeting. Provide a few options to give the recipient flexibility and indicate your willingness to accommodate their schedule as much as possible.

4. Inform Everyone Promptly  

As soon as you know you need to reschedule a meeting, inform all attendees immediately. It’s considered disrespectful to delay notifying your team or clients about the change. Ideally, send a rescheduled request several days in advance. You might start with an instant message followed by a formal email, giving everyone enough time to rearrange their schedules.

5. Choose a Respectful Tone  

Your communication should strike a balance between casual and formal. Aim to be respectful and apologetic, yet professional. Express gratitude for their understanding and flexibility, and confirm whether the proposed new meeting time suits everyone.

6. Personalize Your Communication

Adding a personal touch to your emails can enhance relationships and show your attention to detail. When rescheduling, always address recipients by name rather than using generic salutations like “Dear All” or “To whom it may concern.” This shows respect and helps prevent any feelings of being just another name on a list.

7. Express Gratitude  

It’s important to acknowledge that your team has already dedicated time and possibly significant preparation for the meeting. When you need to reschedule, showing gratitude for their flexibility can foster goodwill and set a positive tone for future interactions.

8. Consider a Phone Call  

If you’ve sent an email to reschedule a meeting and haven’t heard back, or if the meeting time is fast approaching, a phone call might be more effective. Emails can come across as impersonal, particularly with scheduling changes. By calling, you can quickly communicate the new details and confirm availability for the revised time. 

Sample Meeting Reschedule Email Templates

Here are a few email templates for rescheduling a meeting via email:

Direct and Apologetic

Subject: Reschedule of Meeting: [Date]

Hi [Recipient's Name],

I hope this email finds you well. Unfortunately, I need to reschedule our meeting scheduled for [original date and time] due to unforeseen circumstances. Could we please find an alternative time that suits your schedule? 

I apologize for any inconvenience caused and appreciate your understanding.

Thank you,

[Your Name]

Clear and Assertive

Subject: Meeting Reschedule Request

Hi [Recipient's Name],

I'm writing to request a change in our meeting time. The current slot on [original date and time] isn't feasible for me anymore. Would it be possible to reschedule for another time that works for you?

Looking forward to your response.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Polite and Flexible

Subject: Request to Reschedule Meeting

Hi [Recipient's Name],

I hope you're doing well. Could we possibly reschedule our meeting planned for [original date and time]? I have a conflicting appointment and would appreciate adjusting our schedule.

Please let me know your availability. 

Thank you,

[Your Name]

Formal and Concise

Subject: Request for Meeting Rescheduling 

Hi [Recipient's Name],

I'm writing to propose rescheduling our meeting scheduled for [original date and time]. Due to unforeseen circumstances, I would appreciate adjusting the timing.

Please advise us of your availability for a new slot.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Friendly and Informative

Subject: Need to Reschedule Our Meeting

Hi [Recipient's Name],

I hope you're well. I need to reschedule our upcoming meeting on [original date and time] because of an urgent matter. 

Could we find another time that works for both of us? Looking forward to our discussion.

Thanks,

[Your Name]

Conclusion

By following the guidelines outlined in this blog, you can craft clear and polite meeting reschedule emails that communicate the necessary changes while respecting everyone's time and commitments. Remember, transparency, timeliness, and a respectful tone are key to successfully managing meeting adjustments.

With thoughtful communication, you can turn what might seem like a disruption into an opportunity to demonstrate your professionalism and consideration for others' schedules.