How do you ask for the Job?

Mar 12, 2015

If you’re in the job market, you’ve probably read a lot about interviewing—what to do and what not to do. Details matter. Experts advise you to research the company before the interview, ask appropriate questions during the interview, and remember to thank your interviewer when the meeting is over.

This sounds easy. You can do that, right? And at the end of the interview, if it went well and you are convinced you are perfect for the position, you should ask for the job. What? How do you ask for the job? That seems awkward.

Wouldn’t that be too forward? If you ask for the job, won’t the manager think you’re being rude? Probably not. Many managers are glad to know you would take an offer. It’s flattering and shows you are enthusiastic and eager.

It’s really all about the technique. During the interview, your goal is to learn about the position and convince the interviewer you are the right candidate. Hopefully, you have built a rapport with the hiring manager and when you get the right opening you ask for the job. Actually, it’s more of an intimation.

It’s easier than you think. In fact, many times you ask for the job without even realizing it. Here’s a few examples. See if one of them fits your personality.

The interview went well. You found common ground with the interviewer and feel a connection. You really want the job. The interviewer’s body language is positive. She says, “Thank you for coming in today. Do you have any other questions for me?”

You say:

  1. I’ve really enjoyed talking with you and learning more about XXX company. Thank you for being so candid. Based on my research and what I’ve heard today, I’d really like to work with you in this position. How soon will I know your decision?
  2. Thank you. You’ve done an excellent job explaining the job requirements and your expectations. Talking with you has convinced me that I would love to be the person you hire. Is there anything else you need from me before you make a decision?
  3. Thank you so much. And yes, you’ve got me so interested in this position that I do have one final question. What is your next step? Is there any reason I wouldn’t pass on to the next level? I’d really like to be in a position to get an offer.
  4. Thank you for asking. I do have one last question. Is my background and experience, along with our interview today, enough to convince you I am the right person for this job? Is there anything else I could cover that would push me up to the top of your list? I am very interested in getting an offer.
  5. Thank you. Let me just take a moment and reiterate (summarize your 3 strongest qualifications). I think my skills will bring a lot to the XXX team. I am very interested in working with you. What are the chances I’ll get an offer?
  6. Well, thank you for asking. You explained the position so well and I’m so excited about your company and about this position, how about you just offer me the job right now?
  7. Thank you for so patiently answering all my questions. I think the job is perfect for me and I’m very interested. Let me just ask you one last thing. During our interview today, have I unintentionally said anything that would cause you to hesitate to make me an offer? I’m hoping you’ll hire me and if there is anything I need to clear up, please tell me.
  8. Thanks so much for seeing me today. Can you tell me how soon I’ll hear from you? I really hope we’ll be working together.
  9. Thank you. You’ve been very thorough and I don’t have any more questions right now. I’ve researched XXX company and have a lot of respect for your organization. Talking with you today has convinced me I really want to be a part of your future. Why don’t you just let me start next Monday?
  10. Thank you for asking. I am really interested in XXX company and you have answered so many of my questions. Bear with me, please, and let me ask you just one more. Will you be able to hire me? I can see myself at XXX company and I hope you feel the same. Do you have any reservations about me?

Get the idea? It’s not that hard. When you ask for the job, most of the time it’s really just a very strong hint. You can even make it sort of a half-joke or part of some good-natured banter. Practice these lines and they’ll become second nature to you. Soon you’ll be able to mix them up and customize them to suit the mood of the interview.

Don’t forget to send a thank-you note after the interview. Put it in the mail the same day, if you can. A written letter adds a personal touch and reminds the interviewer you are serious about the job. The next time you interview, don’t let your nerves get the best of you. Stay cool and let your winning personality shine through. And don’t be afraid to ask for the job!

About the Author

Charlie Kimmel

As President and CEO, Charlie has dedicated his 25+ year career to executive search at Kimmel & Associates. Charlie joined Kimmel & Associates in 1990 as a Recruiter. In 1993, he graduated with honors from the University of North Carolina at Asheville, where he received a BA in History.

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