Introduction:
Some hiring professionals believe that the first 10 minutes are the most important part of the interview. In these first ten minutes, the candidate is mentally “hired or not.”
And the rest of the interview focuses on giving the interviewer a rationale for their decision.
However, I believe that during the job interview, the impression on the interviewer can fluctuate until the very end of the interview – the closing of the interview.
This article suggests some tips on how to close the job interview.
Expressing Interest in the Position:
Why not express your interest in the position if you genuinely want it? Moreover, if you find a strong fit between the job requirements and your skills, don’t leave the table without stating that.
The interviewer should know that you are the best candidate for the job. However, it’s important not to sound desperate but rather confident. Read further for more insights.
6 Surefire Ways to End a Job Interview on a Strong Note
1. Express genuine interest: Take the opportunity to express your enthusiasm for the position and the company.
Let the interviewer know that you are genuinely interested in the opportunity and believe you would be a strong fit for the role. However, avoid sounding desperate or overly eager.
2. Ask thoughtful questions: Use the closing of the interview to ask insightful questions about the company, the role, or the next steps in the hiring process.
This demonstrates your interest and engagement. Ask questions that genuinely reflect your curiosity and desire to learn more.
3. Seek feedback and next steps: Inquire about the interviewer’s perception of your qualifications and whether they see you moving forward in the hiring process.
Ask if there is anything else you can do to support your candidacy or provide additional information. Seek clarity on the next steps and the expected timeline for their decision-making process.
4. Exchange contact information: If you haven’t already, request the interviewer’s business card or contact details.
This allows you to follow up with a thank-you note or any additional information they may require. Ensure that you have their correct contact information to maintain open lines of communication.
5. Summarize your strengths: Take the opportunity to summarize your key strengths and attributes that make you an ideal candidate for the position.
Highlight specific experiences or skills that align with the job requirements and emphasize how you can bring value to the organization.
6. Conclude with gratitude: Express your appreciation for the interviewer’s time and consideration.
Offer a firm handshake and thank them for the opportunity to interview. Show genuine gratitude for the chance to discuss the position and your qualifications.
Remember, the closing of the interview is your final chance to leave a positive impression. Be professional, confident, and gracious throughout the entire process, and end the interview on a strong note.
How to Close a Job Interview Successfully: Winning Strategies and Closing Statements
The way you and the interviewer close an interview is always based on the interview flow and the atmosphere created during the conversation.
Instead of focusing all your energy on creating questions that may sound phony, try to select questions that genuinely reflect your interest in the job.
Here are some examples:
- Ask about the projects/missions the company/team is currently working on.
- Inquire about the duties and responsibilities of the job.
- Seek information about the next steps in the hiring process.
- Request an estimated timeline for the hiring decision.
- Share positive aspects you know about the company.
- Offer to send samples of your work, if appropriate.
Closing a Job Interview using Direct Questions and Closing Statements:
If you haven’t already conveyed your desire for the job, you may consider asking more direct questions in a tactful and careful manner.
Here are some examples:
- Ask if there’s anything else you can do to present your skills for the job.
- Request the interviewer’s business card or contact details.
- Ask if it’s permissible to follow up with a call or when they will contact you.
- Express your belief that this is an ideal place for you.
However, it’s important not to sound desperate or anxious.
Finally, when appropriate, highlight some of your top strengths in your closing statements.
If you haven’t already discussed why they should hire you in terms of your experience, qualifications, and value-added skills, this is the right time to do so.