| Behavior | Definition | Example |
|---|
| Declare the completion of the purpose or task. | The word well signals a close; people automatically assume the end is near and prepare to take their leave. | “Well, I think we’ve covered a lot of territory today.” |
| Signal that time for the meeting is up. | This is most effective when a time limit was announced in the opening of the interview. Avoid abruptness so the interviewee doesn’t feel pushed along an assembly line. | “We have just a few minutes left, so. . . .” |
| Explain the reason for the closing. | Be sure the reasons are real; if an interviewee thinks you’re giving phony excuses, future interactions will be strained. | “Unfortunately, I’ve got another meeting in fifteen minutes, so we’ll have to start wrapping things up.” |
| Express appreciation or satisfaction. | This is a common closing because interviewers have usually received something from the interview (information, help, a sale, a story, employment). | “Thank you for your interest in our cause.” |
| Plan for the next meeting. | This reveals what will happen next (date, time, place, topic, content, purpose) or arranges for the next interview. | “I think we should follow up on this next week; my assistant will call you to arrange a time.” |
| Summarize the interview. | This common closing may repeat important information, solidify agreements, or verify accuracy. | “We’ve come to three major agreements here today.” (List them briefly.) |