How to close a job interview well is important because it is one of the last impressions you will make. Ending on a high note can make the difference between success and failure. Finishing a job interview effectively requires preparation, organization, and enthusiasm.
What follows are some basics for job seekers to consider when thinking about the final part of the job interview: Asking what happens next and when the Hiring Manager anticipates making a decision; An expression of clear interest; Closing the sale by asking explicitly about potential concerns; and, explicitly thanking the interviewers.
What happens next?
It’s reasonable to ask what happens next to get a sense of the company’s urgency and time horizon for hiring. More importantly, asking what happens next is a clear way for you as a candidate to signal interest. Ideally, job seekers should have a clear picture about what happens next. If an organization is seeking a unicorn—someone with a rarified combination of skills and competencies—or, if the organization isn’t clear on their needs, then the process may be murky and move slowly. When this is the case, best not to put all of your job hunting eggs in one basket!
Are you interested?
Express unequivocal interest based on mutual benefit—If you’re genuinely interested in the position say so aloud at the end of the interview. This “statement of interest” should be scaffolded primarily around how you can help the organization in the position, and secondarily about how/why the position/company are a good fit for you at this stage of your career. Ground your expression of interest in the position and company in mutual benefit with specifics for maximum effect.
Closing the sale aka interview
Closing the sale in this context means directly asking questions to elicit and address any concerns that the employer may have about your ability to succeed. “Closing the sale” requires a degree of confidence and moxie. If you ask the question, be prepared to answer any concerns that are raised. Do you have any concerns about my ability to be successful in this position at your company? Is there any additional information that I can provide to facilitate your decision? Do you have any concerns about how I would fit on the team? These type of questions demonstrate interest and attunement, using behavioral process to get hired.
Express Gratitude
Job interviews are anxiety provoking for many people. Nevertheless, it is good etiquette to thank each person with whom you’ve interviewed, both at the end of the interview as well as post-interview. Within 24 hours of the interview, send email(s) to each interviewer thanking them for their time and the chance to learn about the opportunity and the company.
Summary: How to close a job interview well
Closing a job interview well requires thoughtfulness and organization, confidence and graciousness. The way job seekers end job interviews sends a clear message that can be heard and felt: “I fit, I’m interested, this is going to be great for you and for me.” As Alec Baldwin famously says in GlenGarry Glen Ross: “Always Be Closing.”