Closing Out The Interview

At the end of nearly every interview the interviewer begins closing out by asking “do you have any questions”? The wrong answer to this question 99.99% of the time is “No”. In my experience most managers see this as a lack of interest in the position. So make sure that your don't end the interview with a negative response like that.

The right answer at this point would be to ask the interviewer a few open ended "close out" questions. For example, you could ask “based on this interview and the candidates you’ve spoken to thus far how would you rate my experience and suitability for the position?” This might seem bold, but hey you’ve just dedicated your time to participate in this event – you deserve an answer. Whether or not the manager will honestly answer is unknown, however participating in the process has earned you the right to ask the question.

The close out is also the point where the interviewer needs to hear and understand that you are definitely interested in the position. If you choose to do this, be sure to tell the interviewer “why” you are interested and the value that you can bring to the organization. Your response needs to be strong and persuasive. It should include the reasons you see this position as a good career move. If this opportunity is compelling and will allow for skills growth – say so. Your move should not be based solely on pay, location and benefits.

In closing out the interview be sure to relay your thanks for being considered in the selection process. Afterwards, separate yourself from the rest of the candidates by sending an insightful thank you note. One question often asked by candidates is “can I send an e-mail thank you note?”. The answer is you can, but consider the amount of attention you give regular e-mails. I recommend sending an e-mail, but follow it up with a hand written note. You might consider sending this note via Federal Express or UPS Yes, it is expensive, but what happens when you receive a FedEx package? You stop what you are doing and open it. That is the attention you’re looking for from the reader. I actually had one candidate write a note and asked his friend to dress as a bike courier and deliver it. His friend, the temporary bike courier, actually waited in the lobby while the manager came out to sign for the package. I know what you are wondering and the answer is YES, he did get the job.

You may want to consider high-tech options as well. Our office uses a product called Talk Fusion that enables us to record and send personalized video e-mails. When managers see that you are willing to invest that much in the process they will not forget about you. Obviously these things won’t get an unqualified candidate hired, but it will keep the strong ones competitive during the hiring process. These things are the difference between marketing yourself and selling yourself.

Finally, when closing out the interview, if you are asked during the close out the of the interview if you are interested in the position, be honest. If it the opportunity is a good fit and consistent with your long term career goals and you’re interested in the company – let it be known. If the position is inconsistent with your career aspirations – let them know that and why. Who knows, down the road there might be another position open that you could be considered for!