CLOSING IS CRITICAL
By asking the right questions, you can eliminate the post-interview doubts that interviewees tend to ask themselves after the interview. If you feel that the interview went well and you would like to take the next step, express your interest to the hiring authority and begin closing for a commitment. Try something like the following:

"After hearing more about your company, the position and the responsibilities at hand, I am certain that I possess the qualities that you are looking for in the (title) position. Based on our conversation and my qualifications, are there any issues or concerns that you have that would lead you to believe otherwise?"

You have a right to be assertive. This is a great closing question because it opens the door for the hiring authority to be honest with you about his or her feelings. If concerns do exist, this is a great opportunity to overcome them. You have one final chance to dispel the concerns, sell your strengths and what you can offer to the company. Always end the interview on positive note.

· DO ask for the position if you are interested. Ask for the next interview, or what the next step is in the interview process. If the position is offered to you, and you want it, accept it. If you wish to think it over, be courteous and tactful in asking for that time.

· DON'T be too discouraged if no definite offer is made or specific salary discussed. The interviewer will probably want to communicate with others on the team and the recruiter involved in the search.

· If you get the impression that the interview is not going well and that you have already been rejected, do not let your discouragement show. Often an interviewer who is genuinely interested in your possibilities may seem to discourage you in order to test your reaction.

· Express thanks for the interviewer's time and consideration.

· Ask for the interviewer's business card so you can write a thank-you letter as soon as possible.

> top > back to interview tip options