Closing
InterviewKnowing how to successfully close an interview can make difference between getting job and being one of unfortunate individuals who receives a rejection letter in mail. While much attention is given to matters of how to write a resume and cover letter as well as what to expect in regards to interview questions, far too many job seekers are unprepared when comes to knowing how to successfully close an interview. Keep in mind that this is perhaps your last opportunity to demonstrate why you are perfect for job. Successfully closing an interview walks a fine line between being too aggressive and not being aggressive enough.
It’s always a good idea to bring along some questions that you can ask interviewer at end of interview. This shows that you have more than just a passing interest in position and truly want job. If you have taken time to do your research on company, this also demonstrates initiative and increases your chances of being hired.
Once all questions have been asked and answered, it is quite appropriate to ask interviewer when they anticipate making a hiring decision as well as what next step in interviewing or hiring process will be. Make a point to ask employer for a business card so that you can have readily available contact information for following up with employer in days to come. This will also make it much easier for you to mail all important interview thank-you letter as soon as you return home.
Also don’t forget to shake hands with employer and summarize how your skills and experience, as well as ambition and desire, make you perfect candidate for position. If you’re really confident and don’t mind taking risks, you might ask “So, is there anything stopping you from offering me job right now?” This ploy should only be used if you feel interview has gone well, however. Otherwise you might be setting yourself, as well as interviewer, up for an embarrassing response.
