The close is one of the most important parts of the interview process. This is the last chance a prospective employee can make a good impression on the interviewer. Keep in mind that, typically, the person interviewing you has already made up their mind about you within the first part of the interview. The close can either reaffirm their decision, or in rare cases, it can force them to reconsider you after having an initial bad impression. This is also your last chance to show your personality and why you would be right for the job.

During the close, make sure that you ask the interviewer any pertinent questions that you may have about the job. Also, it is appropriate at this time to ask them about their job and experiences with the company. This way, they can see your genuine interest in the position. Having no questions at all makes it seem that you aren't all that interested.
You may also inquire about salary and benefits. Remember not to try and negotiate salary until they have hired you!

Before leaving the interview, make sure to thank the person whom you have spoken with, and ask them what the next step is. This way, you again convey your interest as well as gauge how interested they are in you. If this is the first of several interviews for the job, they might schedule your next interview at this point. However, don't get discouraged if you don't receive a concrete answer, since every company has different hiring processes.

Make sure you obtain a business card with an e-mail address so you can immediately follow up with a "thank-you" letter when you get home. If no e-mail address is on the card, it is appropriate to ask the secretary for it. If they don't have an e-mail address, then type a letter and mail it immediately.

A close in a job interview is just like closing a sale. You are the one who is doing the selling here, even though you aren't asking the initial questions. You are selling your experience, knowledge, and personality. You want to be sure that the interviewer has no doubts about you before you ask what the next step is. A good close will make it a good interview, and hopefully, help get you the job!

Learn more about this author, Kristeen Moore.
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