Many job candidates believe the most important part of an interview happens during the first few minutes.
Make a good first impression.
Answer the questions well.
Build rapport.
Those things certainly matter.
But after coaching job seekers for many years, I’ve discovered that the final few minutes of an interview often leave the strongest impression.
Think about it. When the interview is over, the hiring manager closes the notebook, thanks you for your time, and walks you to the door. What will they remember? Will they remember someone who simply answered questions? Or someone who confidently summarized the value they could bring to the organization?
Those last few minutes are your opportunity to reinforce why you’re the right candidate they should remember.
Don't Wait for the Perfect Question
Many candidates prepare for one question they hope they’ll be asked:
“Why should we hire you?”
Sometimes interviewers ask it.
Sometimes they don’t.
That’s why I encourage clients to prepare a closing summary, whether the question comes up or not. If the interviewer says, “Do you have anything you’d like to add?” or “Is there anything else you’d like us to know?” That’s your opportunity.
Don’t simply say, “No, I think we’ve covered everything.”
Use those final moments wisely.
Remind Them Why You're the Right Fit
Your closing summary shouldn’t repeat your résumé. Instead, briefly remind the interviewer of three important things.
You Can Do the Work
Connect your experience, skills, and accomplishments to what the organization needs most.
If they shared a challenge they’re trying to solve, explain how your experience prepares you to help.
You Fit Their Culture
Every organization has its own values and way of working. Demonstrate that you’ve done your research and explain why their mission, culture, or goals resonate with you.
Employers hire people who can do the work. They choose between finalists based on who they believe is the best fit.
You Bring Something Unique
Every candidate has experience. What makes yours memorable?
- Your leadership style.
- Your ability to solve complex problems.
- Your industry background.
- Your resilience.
- Your communication skills.
- Or the perspective you’ve gained through a unique career journey.
Don’t assume the interviewer will connect those dots. Help them see what differentiates you.
Make It About Them
One mistake I hear candidates make is talking about why they want the job.
- “I’ve always wanted to work here.”
- “I really need this opportunity.”
- “It would be a great career move.”
While those thoughts may be true, they don’t answer the question employers are really asking. Instead, focus on the value you’ll bring to the organization.
- How will your experience help them?
- What problems can you solve?
- What results have you delivered in the past that demonstrate what you can contribute in the future?
The conversation should always return to the employer’s needs.
The interview isn’t over until you’ve reminded the employer why you’re the right person for the role.
Leave with Confidence
As the interview comes to a close, don’t rush for the door. Take a moment to thank the interviewer for their time. Then confidently summarize why you believe you’re a strong fit for the role. If appropriate, you might even ask:
“Based on our conversation today, do you feel my experience and qualifications are what you’re looking for?”
That simple question often opens the door to valuable feedback and allows you to address any remaining concerns before the interview ends.
Sometimes the most important conversation happens after you think the interview is over.
Final Thoughts
A successful interview isn’t determined by one perfect answer. It’s built through preparation, thoughtful conversation, and a confident finish. Long after you’ve left the room, employers may not remember every detail you shared. But they’ll remember how you made them feel about your ability to contribute to their organization.
Finish with confidence.
Finish with purpose.
Finish by making it easy for the interviewer to remember the value you bring.
Continue Your Journey
The strongest interview endings don’t happen by accident. They result from thoughtful preparation and practice. If you’d like help refining your interview stories, strengthening your closing summary, or preparing for an upcoming interview, I’d be honored to help.
You may also find my book, Answers to the Top 20 Interview Questions, a valuable resource for preparing confident, compelling responses to the questions you’re most likely to be asked.