HR Closing Interview Tips
You have a job interview and feel confident in your ability to perform well in the job you are seeking. But once the introductions and subsequent formalities are through, the interviewer is controlling the discussion. You can answer any question regarding your field of work and have a stellar resume. How do you close the interview in a way that lands you the job or at least a call back?
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Re-Emphasize Your Strengths
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Reiterate your list of skills and traits at the close of your meeting. Undoubtedly you have painted the best picture of yourself and your capabilities. Now is the time to restate them. Remember, people may not remember everything you said or did, but how you start and finish really matters. What skills or traits do you want your interviewer to have in mind when she remembers you? For example, tell her you have 15 years experience in your field and have been promoted on a regular basis at your current job.
Verify Requirements
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Now is a great time to pull out your portfolio. Ask your interviewer if you have provided everything he needs from you. Offer additional documentation such as additional referrals, school transcripts or samples of your work. If you have a portfolio, now may be a good time to show it to your interviewer.
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Clarify the Process
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Ask for permission to call about the hiring decision. Knowing what to expect next helps you to be prepared and keeps you from waiting in an open ended situation. There's nothing worse than sitting around wondering if the interviewer has made the hiring decision. Ask for a time frame and permission to follow up with a call.
Always Close for the Next Step
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Ask for your interviewer's support. Ask a question like, “I believe I have the skills and experience that would make me a great match for this position. What can I do to optimize my chances?” Try to gain your interviewers support. Come right out and ask for it. Or just come out and ask for the job. It may be too aggressive for this particular interview, but it’s worked for many who have tried it.
The Closing Question
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Interviewers often ask the following question to signal the end of your discussion: “Why should I hire you?” The best way to answer this question is to be prepared for it. Re-state your experience, your skills and traits, your steady promotion over the years and what distinguishes you as the best candidate for the job.
Make a Gracious Exit
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Make a gracious exit. Don’t forget to thank your interviewer for her time. Express your gratitude with a handshake while looking directly into her eyes. Let her know you look forward to hearing from her about the decision.
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References
- Photo Credit Group of business people working together in the office. image by Andrey Kiselev from Fotolia.com A businessman an businesswoman having a meeting image by sumos from Fotolia.com overloaded briefcase with files image by Aleksandar Radovanovic from Fotolia.com portrait calling image by Kolett from Fotolia.com question mark 3 image by chrisharvey from Fotolia.com handshake image by Pavel Bernshtam from Fotolia.com
