Swinging Interview Ending into a Winning Moment

In job interviews, where a lot is at stake, you are mostly busy answering questions being asked of you but the ending is often a key moment that can either make or break your chances of winning over the interviewer(s).

Unlike what many of us think the interview isn’t about how you answer questions; it’s also about the questions you ask. The final moments of an interview turn the spotlight on you and present a golden opportunity to turn things around in your favour by asking insightful and strategic questions.

Sometimes it’s not about the First Impression but rather about leaving a Lasting Impression. First, consider the interviewer’s perspective. They’ve already checked out your resume and skills, so now’s your chance to show you’re genuinely interested in the job and the company. So ask insightful questions about the company culture, growth prospects, or recent projects that clearly demonstrate that you’ve researched the company and the role.

Second, when you ask questions, make sure are able to highlight some of the additional skills/attitude or experiences that weren’t covered.

For example, if the company has launched a new product and you have expertise on that you can bring that up.

Third, remember its all about the energy you show and if you are able to energize the others around you. If you feel you were nervous or a little tense during the earlier part of the interview—breathe and relax. Show your enthusiasm without showing desperation or trying to win sympathy of the interviewers. To get your point across, speak clearly and with confidence, and use positive words. Your body language should show how excited you are. Often times a candidate who is a border line can swing this opportunity at the end.

Here are some tips to ace the interview finale:

1. Spend time and energy in researching in depth on the company and the job to make sure your

questions are relevant.

2. Show that you’re interested, be honest and clear about the questions you ask.

3. Use the questions you ask to gently show off your skills and expertise.

4. If you have some personal challenges but can work around them then bring them up for example you could be a mother of a special child so may have some special situations but have been able to handle tough roles despite these.

5. You can also ask for feedback at the end—by sharing about your experience during the interview and sharing where you felt you lacked.

Some don’ts that can totally ruin your chances:

1. Overselling your candidature without actual facts

2. Asking general questions that a quick Google search/website can easily answer.

3. Bringing up a sob story—an ailing parent/childcare responsibility to earn the sympathy of the interviewer.

4. Bringing up your desperation due to a layoff/not finding a job for long and pleading for the role.

Remember it’s all about being genuine and winning over the interviewer with your attitude and skills.