🤝 How to End Interviews Professionally

How you wrap up an interview says as much about your company as how you start it. A professional closing helps candidates feel heard, respected, and clear on what to expect next.

Quick Tip: Ending the interview well leaves a lasting impression — don’t treat it as an afterthought.

📌 How to Use This Guide

This quick guide walks you through four key steps to professionally end any job interview. Use it as a checklist during your hiring process or incorporate it into manager training sessions.

📝 1. Summarize the Candidate’s Key Points

Before closing, take a moment to summarize what the candidate shared — especially why they want the job and what makes them suitable. This does two things:

  • 🎯 It shows you were listening carefully
  • 🗣️ It gives the candidate a chance to clarify or add anything important

Example phrase: “You mentioned a strong interest in leading cross-functional teams and experience handling client escalations — did I capture that right?”

❓ 2. Invite Questions from the Candidate

Give candidates space to ask questions about the role, team, or organization. You’ll get a better sense of their curiosity, preparation, and thought process.

Prompt them if needed: “Do you have any questions about our team structure or expectations during the first 90 days?”

🔜 3. Explain What Comes Next

Make sure the candidate knows how the process continues:

  • 📅 When they’ll hear back
  • 📞 Who will be in touch
  • 📝 If there’s another round, task, or paperwork coming up

Example: “You’ll hear from us within 3 business days. If shortlisted, we’ll invite you to meet the department head.”

🙏 4. Thank the Candidate and Close Formally

End the session by:

  • 🙏 Thanking the candidate for their time
  • 🤝 Standing up, shaking hands (or offering a polite farewell if virtual)
  • 🚪 Escorting them out or ending the call professionally

✅ Interview Wrap-Up Checklist

  • 📝 Summarize the candidate’s strengths and interest
  • ❓ Invite their questions
  • 📢 Share the next steps clearly
  • 🙏 Close the session professionally

🔗 More Resources

📘 Managing People Training Package – Downloadable materials to train your team on interviewing, feedback, and performance management.

🧠 What Kind of Office Personality Are You? – A free self-assessment to explore behavioral traits that show up during interviews.

💪 Your Workplace Superpower – Discover strengths you might spot in candidates — or yourself.

💬 Frequently Asked Questions

What if the candidate doesn’t ask any questions?

It might suggest a lack of preparation or genuine interest. But some candidates are simply nervous — follow up with a gentle prompt like “Is there anything you'd like to know more about?”

Can I provide feedback during the interview?

Yes — brief, general feedback about how the interview went or the candidate’s strengths is often appreciated. Save detailed feedback for post-selection communication.

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