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4 Tips for How to Properly End a Job Interview

You want to make the best possible impression during every minute of your job interview – from start to finish. And “finish” means your performance isn’t over until you leave the stage … er … building.

You can also think of your interview as a sales pitch because that’s what it ultimately boils down to. Even if the job isn’t remotely related to sales, you’re selling the most important product ever to a prospective employer: yourself. So, you want to close on a high note.

Before you shake hands and say goodbye – and shortly afterward – it’s advisable to:

Ask your own questions.

Before your interview, prepare a list of questions that relate to your knowledge of the company and the job. These will not only help you in determining if the role is right for you, but it also shows you’ve done your sincere interest.

  • A few examples: Why is this position open? What do you expect your new hire to accomplish within the first 90 days on the job? Are there opportunities for additional training and development? How is performance measured in this role?

Summarize your interests and qualifications.

Restate your value proposition towards the end of your interview, with a few sentences focusing on the key skills and experience you can offer. Then, reiterate your interest in the position and describe why you’d be a good cultural fit.

  • Conclude by doing what every good salesperson would: close the deal. Ask for the job. Be professional and tactful, saying something like, “I want you to know that I’m very interested in joining your team. Please let me know if you have any further questions going forward.”

Ask about the next step.

Your summary naturally leads to finding out what the next step in an employer’s hiring process will be. For instance, will there be additional interviews – and if so, when? This way, you can not only plan your follow-up communication with your interviewers but also resume your preparation process.

Write follow-up emails and thank-you notes.

Don’t leave without the names, titles, and contact information of everyone you met. As soon as you arrive home, make notes from your meeting, while the details are still fresh in your mind. From here, you can compose follow-up emails to your interviewers within one business day and more formal, handwritten thank-you notes a few days later.

  • It’s not overkill to send both. Your email adds to the good impression you already formed during your interview earlier in the day. Your personalized note reminds the hiring manager again of your skills, professionalism, and courtesy in following up.

For additional interview tips and insights – as well as access to current jobs that fit your career path plans – contact PrideStaff Modesto today. Learn how to leave a lasting positive impression on every hiring manager you meet.

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