Ending an interview on the right note is just as crucial as making a good first impression. You want to end the interview like a winner, appear confident, and leave a positive impression.
Imagine two job seekers attending an interview. Both candidates have the same skills, and the interview went well for both of them. At the end of the interview, interviewee one stands up, says thank you, and walks out of the room. Interviewee two takes a moment to restate their interest in the position, reiterate why they should be hired, and ask a couple of questions before thanking the interviewer with a friendly handshake and leaving with a smile.
Which candidate do you think has a better chance of being hired? Interviewee two, of course. To leave a lasting impression, follow these 10 tips at the end of your interview.
10 Tips for Ending an Interview:
1. Offer a Handshake
Give a firm handshake to demonstrate that you are confident and know your worth. This will leave a good impression and end the interview on a pleasant note. If there are multiple interviewers, shake hands with each person.
2. Say Thank You
End the interview by thanking the interviewer for taking the time to meet with you. This will show that you are polite and grateful for the opportunity.
3. Ask for Their Business Card
Make sure to ask for a business card from the interviewer(s). This will give you helpful contact information to follow up with the interviewer. If you have one, offer your business card as well.
4. Ask Questions
Ask questions to show your interest in working for the company. You could ask, “When will the next round of interviews be held?” for example. Asking a question like this will demonstrate your confidence in being invited back for another interview. It will also help you to assess your chances of success.
5. Summarize the Interview
Summarizing the major points of the interview will give you another opportunity to emphasize why you are the best fit for the position. It will remind the interviewer of your strengths and leave a lasting impression.
6. Offer More Information
Ask the interviewer if there is anything else you can provide, such as references or other background information. If the interviewer thinks you may be lacking in a certain area—experience or qualifications, for example—references could help change his or her mind about your abilities.
7. Let the Interviewer Guide the Close
Analyze the interviewer’s behaviour before you make your closing. Every interviewer prefers a different style of closing, depending on the field, the company, the position, and the individual. Follow the interviewer’s lead and close accordingly.
8. Smile
Always end your interview with a smile. It will close the interview on a positive note and show that you feel confident about your performance. It is always a good sign if the interviewer returns the smile!
9. Be Persuasive
Be persuasive when reiterating your strengths and qualifications. Make the interviewer focus on your best qualities, encouraging him or her to remember you in a positive light. Emphasize your interest in the position and your excitement about the opportunity. Interviewers are more likely to remember eager and passionate candidates.
10. Follow Up
After the interview, always follow up with a thank-you letter or email. This will remind the employer of you and give them yet another reason to hire you. It shows your eagerness to work for the company and will help you stand out from the applicant pool.
Most candidates focus on the importance of the beginning of the interview and answering the questions well. They forget to consider the lasting impression a strong and positive ending will make. The end of an interview is an excellent opportunity for you to restate your interest, highlight what makes you the best fit for the position, and show your manners and professionalism. When you leave your interviewer smiling, they are more likely to invite you back again.
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