So your interview is coming to a close, and you are relieved to be out of this intense situation finally. However, you want to leave a positive and lasting impression. That is why you must not walk out of that room without remembering to do these ten things.
Here are ten tips to close a job interview and get an offer:
1. Highlight Professional Strengths
Your interviewer is looking at all times to see what you can offer to enhance their company. Highlight your qualifications and strengths as often as possible, as long as it relates to the job interview question asked, and isn’t too repetitive to make you look arrogant.
2. Ask Relevant, Thoughtful Questions
The night before your job interview, prepare a few questions that you can ask at the end—you will usually be given an opportunity. Make them relevant and insightful and ensure you couldn’t have found the answers through their website or other print material about the company. If you do, they will know you haven’t done your homework.
You may opt to ask if there are any professional development opportunities you can take advantage of, showing that you’re willing to put in extra time and effort to improve your skills and performance with the company. This is not the time to discuss wages, benefits, or other compensation areas—ask these types of questions after being offered the job.
3. Ask the Interviewer if They Require Further Information
Offer the hiring manager the opportunity to ask any lingering questions they may have. Find out if there’s anything else required before moving on to the next step, such as transcripts, portfolios, background checks, drivers’ abstracts, etc.
4. Discover What the Next Step Will Be
Ask the interviewer what the next step is in the hiring process and when you should expect to receive a phone call. This gives you a good timeline to prepare for the next step and doesn’t leave you wondering when you might receive a call. Furthermore, this is a great way to show your enthusiasm for the position and your desire to work for the company.
5. Stand Up Against the Competition
Ask how many other people are interviewing for this same position. Inquire as to how well you have done. You may wish to word this as, “How do I look so far in comparison to the competition?”
Ask the question once and do not pressure the interviewer if they don’t want to discuss this. This tactic allows you a realistic view of how you performed and whether or not you will advance. Plus, the interviewer will appreciate your frankness and openness. Learn from feedback and use that at your next interview.
6. Restate Your Interest in the Position
There is nothing wrong with coming out and saying how much you want to work at this particular company. Don’t beat around the bush and let the interviewer guess your level of enthusiasm. By closing out your interview with interest, you’ll leave a good lasting impression with your interviewer.
7. Offer a Firm Handshake
Smile, make eye contact, and firmly—but not too aggressively—grip your interviewer’s hand. If more than one interviewer, it’s best to shake everyone’s hand. This will show your professionalism, understanding of etiquette, and potential to lead a staff and be a team player. Regardless of the position you’re applying for; this is the correct way to end an interview.
8. Say Thank You
Thank the interviewer(s) for the opportunity to convey your passion for the position with the company. Remember, they didn’t have to offer you an interview, but they did. Make sure you let them know it’s appreciated.
9. Leave a Business Card
This is a great way to give the interviewer easy access to your contact information. It is a constant reminder of who you are. If the decision-maker looks at that card even once or twice, they’ll have a better chance of remembering you; thus ensuring you stand out among the competition.
10. Send a Thank You Letter
No, this isn’t done while you’re still in the interview chair, but a crucial step that follows. These documents are a polite way to say thank you for the opportunity and pleasure of an interview. This is also an effective method to highlight your outstanding qualifications, passion for your field and convey your enthusiasm for working for that particular company.
Need additional help? Reach out to Candace for assistance!