The Closer is Always Closer!

Whether you are new to the job market or are a 30 year veteran, having some anxiety and a feeling of uncertainty are common emotions that most people go through after an interview. Naturally, someone who is more seasoned in the work force has had this experience and gone through the series of mixed emotions more times than someone who is, say, straight out of college.

However, more tenured employees don’t necessarily experience a lesser degree of anxiety or a lesser feeling of uncertainty. In fact, it might actually be the opposite. As you get older you may feel more and more lost in today’s fast-paced, high tech world that we live in. After all, today’s environment is ever changing and it can happen in the blink of an eye.

What if I told you there is a formula to increasing your chances of landing your next job, whether it is your first job out of college or the dream job you have been chasing for 30 years? I’m guessing that I’ve caught your attention right about now! The following formula I’m about to discuss will only increase your chances, so please don’t assume you can show up to the interview with your step-brother in matching tuxedos and believe you will for certain receive a job offer.

You have probably read a number of articles with tips and strategies on how to win in an interview. What many people don’t realize is that closing an interview is just as important as the interview itself. In sales, success is often measured by your ability to close the sale. An interview is no different; you are selling yourself, your own personal brand, and qualifications as to how they relate to the position. Now let’s get into the formula and discuss how to make that last great impression before you leave, because after all, the closer is always closer. The first step in the formula following the interview is to *show that you’re still interested. You want to leave no doubt in the interviewer’s mind about where you stand and you want to make sure to have a clear idea of what will happen next in the hiring process. A great phrase to use to ensure that you convey the above message is, “It has been a pleasure meeting with you and I’ve enjoyed our conversation. I would like for you to know that I am very interested in contributing to this company and hope you select me. I understand you have other applicants to consider, when are you anticipating on making a hiring decision and how soon will you notify candidates of your decision?”

Next, you will want to *set the stage for further contact. Ask the recruiter or hiring manager about their preferred method of contact to follow-up. Once you determine their preferred method of contact, be sure to ask for their business card. You will want to *promptly send a thank-you note. It is recommended to send a thank-you email within 24 hours of the interview and then follow up with a hand written note that will arrive a few days later.

You can use the thank-you note to *introduce achievements that didn’t get discussed in the interview. If you were able to uncover any needs that the company is currently focused on you could also include *how you may be able to address and help solve some of those needs.

Now that you have done your due diligence in follow up and thank-you notes you’ve done all you can, right? Well you are not done just yet! It is recommended to *continue to research and keep thinking about the company. This ensures that you will be prepared for a second interview or series of ongoing interviews in the future.

Now you are officially done and hopefully you made a wonderful impression on the employer and you are selected as the top candidate! The last thing to remember is that if you are not selected for the position, don’t be a sore loser, *accept rejection gracefully. The future is always uncertain and you never know when the company might be hiring again. It may not be easy to accept defeat but swallow your pride and instead of leaving a sour taste in the company’s mouth, leave a sweet one. Follow up one last time with a thank-you note.

*www.careerbuilder.com

Show Bryce your interview skills at bryce.beaulieu@mattressfirm.com