The 3 Worst Ways to End an Interview
If you are a nervous interviewer, you might be more inclined to make a mistake. Following are the three worst ways to end an interview that you should avoid at all costs!
1. Negotiating Against Yourself
As you leave, don’t bargain down the salary request that you asked for. Don’t say things like, “You know if the salary is an obstacle, I’d settle for less than I told you. I really don’t need that much. I was just hoping to get as much as possible. I’m totally flexible on the money!” This is just shooting yourself in the foot and making you look a) dishonest, and b) like you don’t know what you want.
2. “Fessing Up”
Don’t end your interview with a confession: “Whew! I’m glad that part’s over! I always get so nervous during interviews and I never know what to say! That question you asked about my future goals was a real doozy!” This makes it look like you were being fake the whole interview and that, now that the interview is over, you are finally revealing your true self. Also, don’t confess that you really need this job. No matter how bad the job market is at the time, confessing that you’re desperate simply makes it look like no one wants to hire you. The interviewer will think they shouldn’t hire you either, even if they aren’t sure why.
3. Not Heeding Social Cues
When it’s time to go, it’s time to go. Pay attention to the cues that your interviewer is giving you that the interview is over. Don’t keep babbling on and on about how nice the room decor is, how cute the interviewer’s kids are in their baby picture, or how much you really, really want this job.
The best—the only—way to end an interview is to stand up, shake hands firmly, and thank them for their time. Then go home and wait for the email or phone call with your new job offer!
