by Knowing how to end an interview can often be just as important as how you begin one.
Whether you’re in a face-to-face meeting or a virtual video interview, knowing the right steps to take as you close the discussion can make all the difference.
In this article, we’ll share effective strategies and essential tips to help you confidently conclude an interview.
How to end an interview as a candidate?
Mastering how to end a job interview is a crucial part of the process that can leave a lasting impression on the recruiter.
The way you wrap up your conversation offers a final opportunity to reinforce your fit for the role and demonstrate your professionalism.
Here are detailed steps how to close an interview effectively:
1. Express Sincere Gratitude
Start by thanking the HR for their time. A genuine expression of appreciation shows respect and acknowledges the effort they made to meet with you. This sets a polite tone for the interview conclusion.
Example:
Thank you so much for taking the time to meet with me today. I really appreciate the chance to learn more about the company and the role.
2. Reaffirm Your Interest
Before leaving, it's important to reiterate your enthusiasm. This helps remind the hiring manager why you are a good fit for the position.
Example:
After hearing more about the team and the challenges ahead, I’m even more excited about the possibility of contributing here. I’m confident that my experience in project management and my skills in team leadership would allow me to make a meaningful impact.
3. Probe Insightful Questions
Inquiring about the next steps shows that you’re engaged and eager to know how things will proceed. Asking about the timeline for the decision or any additional steps you may need to take demonstrates that you are proactive.
How many questions to ask at the end of an interview?
- Pose 2-3 questions: This allows you to show interest without taking too much time.
- Focus on quality: Ensure your questions are meaningful and relevant to the role.
- Cover different aspects: You can call upon the job, team culture, or career growth opportunities.
- Be mindful of time: Avoid asking too many questions to respect the schedule.
- Leave a positive impression: Thoughtful prompts demonstrate your engagement and preparedness.
Example:
Could you share what the next steps are in the process? I’d love to know when I can expect to hear back, and if there is anything else you need from me at this stage.
4. Highlight Key Qualities
Before finishing, take a moment to remind the interviewer of why you are a great match. This isn’t a time to repeat everything you’ve said, but rather to underline the strengths that will make you a strong addition.
Example:
I believe my background in marketing strategy, along with my ability to lead cross-functional teams, aligns well with what you’re looking for in this role. I’m confident I can bring valuable insights to the table.
5. End on a Positive Note
Whether the interview is in person or virtual, make sure to close with a friendly and professional tone. A firm handshake is appropriate for in-person interviews, while maintaining good posture and eye contact is key for video meetings.
6. Follow Up
After the interview, send a thank-you email after the interview within 24 hours to reiterate your appreciation. In this letter, briefly mention a key point from your conversation to show that you were engaged.
Dear Mr. Anderson,
I wanted to take a moment to thank you for the opportunity to interview for the Software Engineer position at Google. It was a pleasure speaking with you today and learning more about the innovative projects your team is working on.
I am even more excited about the possibility of contributing to Google, particularly with the exciting work you're doing in AI and machine learning. I believe my experience in software development and my passion for technology would allow me to make a meaningful impact on your team.
Thank you again for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing about the next steps in the hiring process. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need any further information.
Best regards,
John Duck
Closing statement examples for candidates
1. Software Development
"Thank you for taking the time to discuss the software engineer position at Google. I’m excited about the prospect of contributing to the development of cutting-edge technologies, particularly in AI and machine learning. I believe my experience in building scalable systems would align well with Google’s mission, and I would be thrilled to bring my skills to your innovative team."
2. Healthcare
"I appreciate the opportunity to interview for the nursing position at Mayo Clinic. I’m passionate about providing exceptional care to patients and working within a renowned healthcare system. The chance to contribute to Mayo Clinic’s commitment to excellence in patient care is something I’m truly excited about."
3. Marketing
"Thank you for the insightful discussion about the marketing manager role at Nike. I’m particularly excited about Nike’s dedication to innovation and empowering athletes. With my experience in digital marketing and brand strategy, I’m confident I could bring fresh ideas to your team and help further elevate the Nike brand."
4. Finance
"Thank you for the opportunity to interview for the financial analyst position at Goldman Sachs. I’m thrilled about the possibility of working with such a prestigious firm and contributing to high-level financial strategies. My experience in data analysis and financial modeling aligns well with your team’s needs, and I look forward to potentially adding value to your organization."
5. Education
"I really appreciate the chance to interview for the teaching position at Harvard University. It’s clear that the university’s commitment to academic excellence and fostering intellectual growth aligns with my own values as an educator. I would be honored to contribute to such a distinguished institution and help students reach their full potential."
6. Retail
"Thank you for discussing the sales manager role at Apple with me today. I’m excited about the opportunity to work with a brand known for its innovation and customer experience. I believe my experience in sales strategy and team leadership will enable me to drive results and further enhance Apple’s reputation in retail."
7. Manufacturing
"It was a pleasure speaking with you about the operations manager position at Tesla. I’m particularly excited about Tesla’s vision for sustainable energy and cutting-edge manufacturing processes. With my background in optimizing production workflows, I believe I could contribute to Tesla’s mission by improving efficiency and driving innovation within your operations."
8. Legal
"Thank you for the opportunity to interview for the attorney position at Baker McKenzie. I’m eager to bring my expertise in corporate law to a firm with such a global presence. I believe my background in international business law and client relations would make me a strong fit for your team. I’m excited about the potential to work with such a distinguished firm."
9. Hospitality
"Thank you for discussing the hotel manager position at Marriott International with me. I’m excited about the possibility of leading a team that focuses on delivering exceptional customer service and ensuring memorable guest experiences. I believe my leadership skills and passion for hospitality would align well with Marriott’s commitment to excellence."
10. Creative
"It was a pleasure speaking with you today about the graphic designer position at Adobe. I’m thrilled about the opportunity to work for a company that leads the creative software industry. My experience in design and passion for creating visually compelling work would be a perfect fit for Adobe’s innovative environment. I’m excited about the possibility of contributing to your creative team."
What to say at the end of an interview as the interviewer?
1. Summarize Key Takeaways
Offer a brief recap of the candidate’s qualifications for job, experience, and any important details that stood out. This reinforces their strengths and gives them feedback on what resonated during the conversation.
Example:
It was great to hear about your experience leading the development of the mobile app at Spotify. Your expertise in agile project management and your ability to work with cross-functional teams is exactly what we’re looking for at Facebook.
2. Outline the Next Steps
Provide clear information about what will happen next in the recruitment process. This includes when the applicant should expect to hear from you and whether there are any additional rounds.
Example:
Our team will review all candidates over the next few days. We’ll be reaching out by the end of the week with an update. If you’re selected to move forward, we will arrange a second interview to discuss the technical aspects of the role at Google.
3. Invite Final Questions
Give the job seeker an opportunity to clarify anything they may still be uncertain about.
Example:
Before we wrap up, do you have any questions about the position at Apple or about the team you’d be working with? I’m happy to provide any extra details you might need.
4. Express Gratitude
Acknowledging their effort shows respect for their interest in the role and your organization.
Example:
Thank you for taking the time to speak with me today. I was particularly impressed by your work on the supply chain optimization project at Amazon. Your strategic thinking and data analysis skills would be an asset to our team at Microsoft.
5. Close with Courtesy
End the interview politely and professionally, leaving the candidate with a positive impression of the process.
Example:
It’s been a pleasure speaking with you. We’ll be in touch soon with next steps. Thank you again for your time, and I hope you enjoy the rest of your day.
Closing interview statement samples for HR
1. Software Engineering
"It’s been a pleasure discussing the software engineering position with you today. Your experience in building scalable platforms at Microsoft aligns well with the challenges we’re tackling here at Apple. We’ll be reviewing all candidates and will reach out with an update within the next week. Thank you again for your time, and we appreciate your interest in this opportunity."
2. Medicine
"Thank you for sharing your experiences and discussing the nursing role at Mayo Clinic. I’m truly excited about the opportunity to contribute to such a renowned institution known for its dedication to patient care. My background in critical care and my passion for helping patients would allow me to be an asset to your team."
3. Social Media
"Thank you for taking the time to meet with me today regarding the brand manager position at Nike. I’m excited about the chance to contribute to such a globally recognized brand. My experience in developing comprehensive marketing strategies would help drive brand growth. I would love to bring my innovative approach to your team."
4. Analytics
"Thank you for discussing the financial analyst position at Goldman Sachs. I’m excited about the possibility of leveraging my expertise in financial modeling and analysis to support your team. I believe my background in corporate finance and data-driven decision-making aligns well with the role and Goldman Sachs’ high standards."
5. Sales
"I truly appreciate the opportunity to discuss the sales manager position at Home Depot. My experience in retail management, particularly driving sales and customer engagement, would enable me to help your team achieve its goals. I’m enthusiastic about the chance to bring my leadership skills to a company known for its commitment to customer satisfaction."
6. Law
"Thank you for the engaging conversation regarding the attorney position at Baker McKenzie. I’m excited about the possibility of bringing my expertise in corporate law and my passion for client advocacy to your team. I am confident that my skills and experience would complement your firm’s impressive reputation."
7. Warehousing
"Thank you for discussing the operations manager role at Tesla. I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute to such an innovative company. My experience in streamlining production processes and optimizing supply chain management would align perfectly with Tesla’s mission to drive efficiency and sustainability in manufacturing."
8. Hotel
"I greatly appreciate the time you took to discuss the hotel manager position at Hilton Worldwide. With my background in hotel operations and team leadership, I’m confident that I can contribute to Hilton’s commitment to exceptional guest experiences. I would be thrilled to bring my skills to such a prestigious company."
9. Design
"Thank you for the insightful conversation regarding the graphic designer position at Adobe. I’m excited about the opportunity to work with such a creative powerhouse. With my experience in visual storytelling and branding, I’m confident that I could bring fresh ideas to cutting-edge design projects."
10. Tutor
"Thank you for the opportunity to discuss the professor position at Harvard University. I’m enthusiastic about the prospect of contributing to such an esteemed academic institution. My research in global education trends and passion for teaching would align perfectly with Harvard’s commitment to excellence."
Why closing an interview politely important?
- For the Interviewer:
1. Enhances Reputation
Using right closing statement for interview helps build a favorable impression of the organization. It outlines that the company values the candidate’s time and effort.
2. Demonstrates Professionalism
Ending the conversation respectfully reflects well on the hiring team. This fosters a welcoming and inclusive work environment, making applicants feel appreciated.
3. Keeps Future Opportunities Open
Even if a job seeker isn't selected, closing an interview on a positive note maintains the potential for future engagements. This can lead to referrals for other roles down the line.
- For the Candidate:
1. Maintains Attitude
A well-mannered close helps the person leave a strong, positive impression. How the individual concludes the interview speaks to their preparedness.
2. Offers Closure
A courteous end to the interview allows the candidate to leave with clear expectations. Knowing what comes next alleviates any uncertainty about the outcome.
3. Expresses Appreciation
Knowing what to say at the end of an interview shows respect for the HR's consideration. It emphasizes the gratitude for the opportunity, regardless of how the conversation went.
How to end an interview - Conclusion
In conclusion, what to say at end of interview can have a significant impact on the overall impression you leave, whether you're the HR or the candidate.
By closing the talk with thoughtfulness, both sides ensure that the interview ends on a strong, respectful note, setting the stage for future opportunities.
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