Closing the interview

Military.com recently posted an article by Carole Martin, Monster Contributing Editor, entitled Successfully Closing the Interview. Interviewing can be an uncomfortable process for some and as far as awkwardness is concerned, closing the deal takes the cake. Ms. Martin’s take on closing an interview is particularly interesting because she walks her audience through tailoring a closing technique to the job at hand.

Aggressive jobs (think sales) may call for a more forward approach while more subdued jobs (think administrative) require a more subtle approach. Check out the article for more details. Below is an excerpt on how to safely act in any interview, regardless of the type of job at hand:

“Regardless of your style or how you choose to close the interview, there are some key points to keep in mind:

• Leave your interviewer with the right picture of you. Think of at least five skills or traits you want remembered after the interview.
• Ask if there is anything else you can provide, such as references, background information or work samples.
• State your interest in the position. Don’t be overly anxious, but act interested. Remember to mention the added value you can bring to the job.
• Ask about the next step in the process. It’s important for you to know the next step so you can follow up. Ask for the decision date.
• Find out how to contact them. If you don’t hear back, you will need to know who to contact and whether they will accept calls to check the status.

Closing the sale is important, but your closing should be tailored to the position, your personality and interviewing style and the interviewer.”