Opening, closing and follow-up
First and last impressions carry extra weight. A confident opening, thoughtful questions at the end and a prompt follow-up make you memorable for the right reasons.
Key ideas
- Arrive prepared to give a brief, warm introduction.
- Your questions show how you think.
- A short follow-up note reinforces your fit.
Step by step
- 1
Prepare a confident, brief greeting and opening line.
- 2
Prepare three questions about priorities, success and challenges in the role.
- 3
Close by restating your interest and one key strength.
- 4
Send a concise thank-you note within 24 hours.
Example
A candidate ends by asking what success looks like after six months, then links her answer to that goal. Her follow-up email repeats the link in two lines.
Your drill
Write your three closing questions and a three-sentence follow-up email template.
Common mistakes
- Saying you have no questions.
- Asking only about salary and holidays at the first interview.
Check yourself
Why ask what success looks like in the role?
Show the answer
It shows focus on contribution and gives you a chance to link your strengths to their priorities.
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