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Asking for a Friend: What is the Best Way to Conclude an Interview?

Old school tactics to differentiate your candidacy.
H. Michael Burgett
Contributing Writer

Dear Mike:

I recently had an interview for a job opportunity that I’m really excited about. Overall, I think the interview went well, but I’m not sure about the best way to conclude it. I want to leave a positive impression and ensure I’ve covered all the important points. Could you please provide some guidance on the best way to conclude an interview and stand out from the crowd?

Thanks,

Marcie

_______________________

Hi Marcie,

It is refreshing in this day in time that a candidate like yourself would seek to further differentiate your candidacy. Too often in our current culture we have become conditioned to expect a potential employer to take the next step when simply showing continued interest could tilt the scales in our favor.

I am going to go old-school here and suggest that you can absolutely stick the landing with a good old fashioned thank-you note.

Yes, a thank-you note.

It is important that after an interview you promptly reach out to each person separately with a personal note of appreciation. It should include thanking them for their time, mentioning something of relevance in the interview, and closing with an interest in moving forward in the process. Consider that it is best to write a different note to each interviewer, not simply repeat what has been said to others.

Email is appropriate, connecting on your favorite professional network is expected, but if you truly want to stand out also send a hand-written note. Arriving 2 or 3 days after the interview as the company is making decisions on the final candidate, trust me, this might just be the differentiator that puts you on top.

Best of luck on your continued search! Let us know how it goes.

Mike

_______________________

TNCR Community – what advice would you add to this thread? Do you have a perspective that you can share? Have a career question for Mike? Email him directly at mike.burgett@burgateglobal.com

  1. I agree with Mike regarding the thank you note. It is a great opportunity to summarize your fit for the position and also to show you were listening to the requirements. The other recommendation I have is asking this final question or variation of. “Was there anything you wanted (or expected) about my experience that you didnt. Can I clarify anything about my experience that you have.” This gives you one last opportunity to sell yourself or correct any missteps.

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