Closing the Interview
Many people second-guess themselves after an interview. By closing strongly and asking the right questions, you can eliminate the post-interview doubts that tend to plague most interviewees.
If you think that the interview went well and you would like to take the next step, be sure and express your interest to the hiring authority. Try something like this:
“After hearing more about your company and the position, I am certain that I have the qualities that you are looking for in the (title) position. Based on our conversation and my qualifications, are there any concerns that you have that would lead you to believe otherwise?”
You have the right to be assertive. You should ask a closing question such as the above because it opens the door for the employer to be honest with you about his or her feelings. If there are concerns, this is a time to overcome them. You have one final chance to dispel the concerns, sell your strengths and end the interview on a positive note.
Some things to remember during the closing process:
- Do not be discouraged if there is not an offer made or specific salary discussed. The interviewer will probably want to talk with the office first or meet with other applicants before making a decision.
- Be sure that you can answer the following questions: “Why are you interested in the company?,” and “What can you offer?.”
- Thank the employer for his/her time and consideration and shake his/her hand with a firm handshake.
- Ask the employer for a business card so you can write a thank you note as soon as possible.
- Send a handwritten thank you note to the employer within 24 hours after the interview.
Following Up
When you get back in your car, promptly write down key issues uncovered in the interview. Think of the qualifications that the employer is looking for and match your strengths to them. Immediately call your recruiter! Follow-up is critical!
Writing Thank You Letters
Tips for sending your follow-up letter:
- Send out your thank-you letters no later than 24 hours after your interview has ended.
- Always keep your audience in mind. Address the issues and the concerns that were mentioned during the interview.
- Use the thank-you letter as a follow-up “sales” letter, in which you restate your reasons for wanting the position and remind the interviewer why you’re qualified.
- Mention anything of importance that your interviewer might’ve neglected to ask in person.
- If you’re only writing a few sentences, send a handwritten note. Otherwise, send a typed, formatted letter (see sample letters below).
- Thank everyone who contributed to your job search.
- If you decide after the interview that you don’t want the job after all, write a respectful note withdrawing your application.
- Choose your words carefully when using email. Email creates an instant written record, so don’t let the speed and the ease of sending it blind you to the fact that you will be judged on what you’ve said and how you’ve said it.
For sample Thank You letters, please see our page The Thank You Letter. Be sure to send a thank you letter! DON’T FORGET!