In the job interview – Ask For The Job ? By: Peggy McKee

“You get what you ask for.”? The most important step in the interviewing process is one most people miss. ASK FOR THE JOB! Most interviewers are waiting for that closure. If you have done everything exceptionally well during the interviewing process, but have not asked for the job, you’ve just wasted an interview.

Asking for the job shows the potential employer that you are assertive, confident and right for the job. It might feel uncomfortable, but this is your only chance to ask for something you really want. Make sure your voice is firm and you make eye contact. Think of it as your closing argument, you’ve got to win over the jury.

You should also ask the interviewer if he or she thinks you are right for the job. Even if they tell you something unpleasant, think of it as a lesson learned. However, do yourself a favor and ask for the job. You deserve it!

• Leave your interviewer with the right picture of you. Think of at least five skills or traits you want remembered after the interview. Choose something “concrete.” When you answer with, “I have great communication skills, and I am a hard worker,” you will not stand out. Example: “I have two skills that are distinctly different but that define my personality. I am a very good pianist and an excellent ‘computer guy.’ I’m known for my love of keyboards.
• Ask if there is anything else you can provide. Examples include references, transcripts, background information, and samples. Example: “Is there any other information that I can provide that would convince you that I am the right person for this job?
• State your interest in the position. Sound interested and tell what added value you can bring to the job. Example: “From what you have been telling me about this position, and from what I know about your company, I know that I have the right mix of experience and education to bring value to this position. Based on past experiences I can ‘ramp up’ quickly and be on board with projects within the first few weeks.”
• Ask about the next step in the process. It’s important for you to know the next step for follow-up. Ask for the decision date, if possible.Example: “I’m interested in knowing what the next step in the process is and when you will be making a decision so I can follow-up.”
• Find out how to contact the interviewer. If you don’t hear back, you will need to know whom to contact and whether the employer will accept calls to check the status. Example: “I’d like to stay in touch and follow-up with you in a week or two to see how the process is going and where I stand. How do you prefer that I communicate with you — email or phone?”