Guest Author:
If you’re serious about landing a satisfying job, you’ve probably spent hours reading books and websites about tips and tricks to help you get through interviews like a pro. Many of those texts probably suggested taking a big leap and actually asking for the job during the interview. Easier said than done, right? Well, maybe you won’t think that after reading these tips.
Keep Things in Perspective
There may be several reasons why you feel you should steer clear from asking for the job. However, remember that you miss out on all the chances you don’t take. Go with your gut when gauging how the interview went. If you’re feeling confident, ask the question in a way that works for you. The information below offers some various approaches to consider.
Show Your Enthusiasm
A hiring manager wants to employ people who are truly excited about working for the company. You can demonstrate your enthusiasm in a variety of ways throughout the interview, but you can end by saying something like, “I really want to work here, and this position seems like a perfect fit. Is there anything we haven’t covered?”
The second part puts interviewers on the spot. Be careful though, because this approach is very direct and doesn’t work well in all scenarios. If you’re aiming for a sales or marketing position though, it might help you gain traction by showing you’re not afraid of making a memorable close.
Try to Get a Sense of Timing
You can also say something like, “I’m very interested in this job. Is there anything that would prevent you from offering it to me right now?” That statement shows you’re willing to stop your job search immediately because this particular position is so desirable.
The answer you get may not be one that lands you the job, but at least it may give some insight into how long you’ll have to wait before getting an answer. For example, maybe the interviewer will tell you that there are a few other people who have to weigh in on whom to hire, and one of them won’t be in the office until next week.
Address Concerns
It’s also important to make yourself available so an interviewer feels like you’re open to addressing unanswered questions. You can just simply say, “Are there any concerns you have about hiring me?” or try a similar approach by asking, “Are there reasons why you believe I couldn’t perform the duties of this job to meet your expectations?”
Give a Reminder About Qualifications
Employers often hire new people because they are trying to solve a problem. Hopefully, in the midst of preparing for your interview, you’ve done some research about the company. During that task, you may have discovered some pressing needs the organization has, and feel you’re well equipped to fill them.
You can showcase the fact that you’ve done your homework and say something like, “I saw the press release on your website that mentioned you’re expanding to the United Kingdom within a year. I’m very prepared to assist with that transition, especially since I lived in England for 10 years and have a strong understanding of the culture.”
Then, follow that up with a direct statement that you want the job, such as, “Given that I have the skills you need, I’d be a great fit for this opportunity. Is there anything else you need to know before offering me the job?
This is a very bold approach, and you should probably only use it if you have a great deal of confidence that the skills you possess are truly in demand by the employer.
Emphasize That You’re a Team Player
Sometimes you need to go a bit further than just saying, “I’m really interested in this job” and add, “I’m really excited to work with you and your team.” That tells the interviewer that you’re looking beyond what the job can offer you and trying to focus on how you can be an asset to the company.
A hiring manager should appreciate that approach. After all, no matter what kind of job it is, you’ll almost certainly have to learn to work as a team. That team may be comprised of two other people or 20, but the same principles of communication, negotiation and leadership apply regardless of size.
Only Ask for the Job if You Really Want It
Some people think they’ll test the tricky waters of asking for a job during an interview by taking their chances even if they’re not truly interested in the position. It goes without saying that any of the approaches you now know about should only be used if you’re genuinely eager to get the position, and you’re prepared to accept it on the spot.
In the same way you might ask friends and family members to drill you on the most common interview questions, get them to give you feedback as you close a mock interview with some of the suggested approaches you’ve just learned. The more naturally you can say them when the pressure is on, the more likely the interviewer will see that your intentions are genuine and you really do think you’re the best candidate.
