Closing the Deal: 7 Essential Secrets of Ending Job Interviews Successfully
Let’s face it: You’ve worked hard to get in the door and have this job interview. What’s more, you’ve likely rehearsed your answers and know exactly what to say — from introductions to the meat of the interview. But the truth is that job interviews often succeed or fail in the last minutes … or even seconds. The closing of a job interview is critical to being remembered, and could well seal the deal and land that job for you. A strong interview closing is even MORE important when you’re dealing with an unskilled interviewer — one who might not know enough to flag you as a superior candidate. So follow these quick tips to make sure you put your stamp on the interview and do everything you can to close like a winner:
Be sure to recap your interest in the position.
You may be asked if there is anything you want to add or if there is anything else the interviewer should know. Make sure you have an answer prepared, just in case.
There are times when you can hit it off with the interviewer, but don’t become overly familiar. It’s an interview and you are being interviewed for a position, not to be a friend.
Ask what the next step in the hiring process will be. If you are using a recruiter, ask if they will be getting back to the recruiter or to you.
Ask if it is permissible to contact the interviewer for updates.
Thank them sincerely and make sure you get a business card.
Make sure to thank the assistant, receptionist or anyone else who greeted or helped you.
Even if you are not interested in a position, closing the interview professionally can help in the future. If you are interested, it’s a must.
(via The Hiring Hub)