Imagine the interview is wrapping up. The candidate is nervous, hoping they made a great impression.
You, the interviewer, have the power to leave them feeling valued and informed.
Knowing what to say at the end of an interview as the interviewer can make all the difference.
It’s your chance to show kindness, clarity, and professionalism while setting clear expectations.
A strong closing builds trust and leaves a positive mark, whether they get the job or not.
In this guide, we’ll share practical tips, real-life examples, and phrases to use (or avoid) to end interviews smoothly. Let’s help you close every interview with confidence and care.
Set Clear Next Steps
Clarity is key when wrapping up an interview. Candidates often leave wondering, “What happens now?” As the interviewer, you can ease their anxiety by explaining the hiring timeline and next steps. This shows transparency and respect for their time.
Scenario: A candidate just finished a great interview for a marketing role. They’re eager but unsure about the process.
What to Say: “Thank you for coming in today! We’ll review all candidates this week and reach out by Friday with next steps.”
What Not to Say: “We’ll let you know soon.” (Too vague, leaves them hanging.)
Be specific about when and how you’ll follow up, whether it’s a phone call, email, or second interview. If there’s a delay, acknowledge it: “We may need extra time due to scheduling, but we’ll update you by Monday.” This keeps candidates informed and shows you value their patience.
Show Appreciation for Their Time
Everyone’s time is precious, and candidates often take time off work or rearrange schedules to attend interviews. A heartfelt thank you makes them feel valued and sets a positive tone for your company.
Scenario: A candidate traveled an hour for a retail job interview. They’re nervous but excited.
What to Say: “We really appreciate you taking the time to meet with us today. It was great learning about your skills!”
What Not to Say: “Thanks for stopping by.” (Feels rushed and impersonal.)
Highlight something specific you enjoyed, like their enthusiasm or a unique skill. For example: “I loved hearing about your customer service experience—it really stood out.” This small gesture boosts their confidence and leaves a warm impression of your workplace.
Encourage Questions from the Candidate
Interviews are a two-way street. Inviting candidates to ask questions shows you care about their needs and helps them feel heard. It also gives you insight into their priorities.
Scenario: A candidate for a teaching position seems hesitant but curious about the role.
What to Say: “Do you have any questions about the role or our team? We’d love to hear what’s on your mind!”
What Not to Say: “Any questions? No? Okay, we’re done.” (Shuts down conversation.)
If they’re shy, prompt them gently: “Some candidates ask about team culture or growth opportunities—anything you’d like to explore?” This encourages engagement and shows you’re open. Answer their questions thoughtfully to build trust and show what working with you is like.
Highlight Your Company’s Values
The end of an interview is a great time to reinforce what makes your company special. Share a quick note about your company culture or mission to leave a lasting impression.
Scenario: A candidate interviewing for a tech startup role is excited but unsure about the work environment.
What to Say: “We’re passionate about innovation here and love supporting creative ideas. Thanks for sharing your vision with us today!”
What Not to Say: “We’re a fun place to work!” (Too generic, lacks depth.)
Tie your values to something the candidate said, like: “Your problem-solving skills align so well with our focus on collaboration.” This connects their strengths to your mission, making them feel like they could belong.
Address Any Concerns Politely
Sometimes, a candidate’s interview raises red flags, like gaps in their resume or unclear answers. The closing is a chance to address concerns kindly while keeping the conversation professional.
Scenario: A candidate for a sales role seemed unprepared for some questions.
What to Say: “Thanks for sharing your experience. Could you clarify a bit more about your recent sales projects next time?”
What Not to Say: “I’m not sure you’re a good fit.” (Too blunt, discourages them.)
Use gentle language to give feedback or ask for clarification. This shows you’re fair and gives them a chance to improve, whether for this role or elsewhere. It also keeps the interaction positive.
Offer a Warm Goodbye
A friendly farewell leaves candidates with a great final impression, even if they don’t get the job. A warm goodbye reflects your leadership style and company’s professionalism.
Scenario: A candidate for an admin role finished a solid interview but seemed nervous throughout.
What to Say: “It was a pleasure meeting you! We’ll be in touch soon, and best of luck with everything!”
What Not to Say: “Bye, we’ll call you.” (Feels cold and dismissive.)
Smile, make eye contact, and use their name if possible: “Thanks, Sarah, for a great conversation!” This small touch makes them feel respected and valued, no matter the outcome.
Conclusion
Knowing what to say at the end of an interview as the interviewer is about balancing kindness, clarity, and professionalism.
By setting clear next steps, showing gratitude, inviting questions, highlighting your company’s values, addressing concerns tactfully, and offering a warm goodbye, you create a positive experience for every candidate.
These small actions build your reputation as a thoughtful employer and leave candidates feeling respected.
Whether they join your team or not, they’ll remember your care and professionalism.
Use these tips to close interviews with confidence and make every candidate’s experience memorable.
