How do I reply to a welcome e-mail for my new job?

How should i reply to this job interview email?

• I recieved an email in response to a job application I made, asking if I can come to an interview. I'm only 19 and this is a summer job, the email itself is quite informal, it opens with 'Hello' and just ends with 'Regards, [First name of employer]'. In fairness I do know him quite well, but I doubt that the email I have recieved is any different to one another person has received. I don't want to give too an informal response. Now we get to the dilema, the email asks me to pick a time slot from those available, however I won't be able to attend an interview as I'm at university half way across the country and I can't afford to travel back for anything because of exams. Is this a good enough excuse to request a phone call? How would I word this? As I said I know him quite well, we've even spoke about this in casual conversation before the process began. But I'm still unsure how to word this email?

• Answer:

  How about writing something like this (or something a tad less formal however you determine): Dear xxxx, Thank you very much for your recent e-mail regarding an interview. Unfortunately, I am still in my exam period at xxx University and won't be available in person until xx/xx/xx. However, I am definitely interested in the possibility of a job with your company. I was wondering if we might be able to have a phone interview before I return home in order to demonstrate my continued interest in the position. This way I could provide you with some additional information so that you could determine if I am a possible fit. Of course, I would plan to meet you and any others who are involved in the job appointment decision as soon as I arrive home. Let me know if this might be a possibility. Thank you. Sincerely, xxxxx Best wishes on getting the interview and the job!