How to Ask for the Job

At the end of the Interview do not forget to Ask for the Job.  If you are truly interested in the opportunity in front of you, then ask for it.

One of the great things about being a child is being able to ask for what you want -- extra playtime or an extra piece of pie and ice cream.  Children not only ask for what they want but they are very persistent.  If asking this way did not get them what they wanted they will come back and try a different approach.

As we grow older something happens and we acquire “hang-ups” that prevent us from going after what we really want.  The development of pride, embarrassment, and self-consciousness are all emotions that we develop as we get older that hold us back from our professional and personal growth.

These emotions have a tendency to creep up during the process of the interview.  Thus, most interviewees do not feel comfortable asking for the job because they are afraid of hearing the dreaded response of “no”.  However, there is more than one way to approach the subject without actually saying the words, “May I please have this job?”.

Let’s take a look at a few options.

Visualization Approach:

This method consists of talking as though you are already part of the team by using words such as “we,” “us,” and “our” during the conversation. Doing so will allow the interviewer to visualize you in the position.

Here’s an example:

“As a team member of Your Development Team, I would provide outstanding leadership and team qualities to produce the quality of work in a very timely and efficient manner that would cause our development team to shine in the eyes of management.”

If this approach is used through the entire interview, the interviewer at some point will begin to use the words “we” and “us” as well.  Utilizing this interview technique will bring you much closer to an actual job offer.

Summation Approach:

Lay out all the facts—the exact reasons there is a match between you and the employer.

Here’s an example:

“Throughout our conversation today, I have learned about the dynamics of your company, its culture, and the responsibilities of the position. I’m glad to see that your requirements match my experience to the letter—from my leadership qualities to my development skills.  I look forward to participating in the rest of the interview process and optimistically anticipate being a part of your team.”

You cannot assume that the interviewer will see the benefit of having you join the company.  It is your responsibility to make clear to the interviewer that there is a mutual benefit to extending you the offer.

Straightforward Approach:

This approach is very simple and clear-cut.

 “I am very interested in this position. Have I provided you with all of the information you need to offer the position to me?”

It is a known fact that some interviewers are disappointed when candidates don’t ask for the position. They see it as lack of true interest in the position and the company.  You may be surprised by the response that you receive.