For a scheduled call , a practical rule is to wait 15 to 30 minutes past the agreed time before assuming it’s a no-show and following up. If it’s an interview or business call, a follow-up email or message after that window is reasonable, and many workplace etiquette sources say returning business calls within 48 hours is the outer limit, with 24–36 hours being better.

What to do

  • Check your calendar, email, text, and voicemail first in case there was a time change or timezone mix-up.
  • If it’s only a few minutes late, give it some slack.
  • After 15–30 minutes , it’s fair to call or message to confirm whether they still want to connect or need to reschedule.
  • If you’re the one who missed the scheduled call, apologize and reschedule promptly.

Simple rule of thumb

  • Casual scheduled call: wait about 15 minutes.
  • Interview or important business call: wait 15–30 minutes.
  • Replying after the missed call: same day is best; within 48 hours is the maximum many etiquette guides suggest for business follow-up.

Example

If a call was set for 2:00 PM and no one has joined by 2:20 PM, it’s reasonable to send a short message like: “Hi, I’m available and wanted to check whether we’re still on for today.”

TL;DR: wait 15–30 minutes after the scheduled time, then follow up politely.