As the founder of Advize and someone passionate about career development, I'm excited to share one of my most powerful interview tips - a strategy I've refined through years of experience on both sides of the interview table. This technique has helped countless professionals secure their dream job opportunities, and today, I'm sharing it with you.
The "Do You Have Any Questions?" Opportunity
We've all been there. The interview is winding down, and you hear those inevitable words: "Do you have any questions for me?"
Here's where most candidates fall into one of two traps:
They ask basic questions they think they "should" ask (but don't really care about)
They say "No, you've answered everything!" and end the conversation there
Both approaches miss a golden opportunity to stand out in your job search.
The Strategy That Changed My Career
During my early days pursuing career opportunities in sales, I was obsessed with finding ways to stand out from the crowd. Later, as I moved into leadership roles and conducted countless interviews myself, I refined a technique that I've seen work time and time again. I call it "The Interview Closer," and it's revolutionized how my candidates approach career success.
How It Works
First, yes - you should absolutely have thoughtful interview questions prepared. Ask them! Be genuinely curious. But here's where the magic happens...
When they ask that second time (and they always do) - "Do you have any other questions?" - this is your cue. This is your moment to deliver your finale.
The Format
Here's the framework I've developed:
Copy"Thanks so much for your time today. Those are all my questions, but I would like to say something... I've really enjoyed learning more about [specific aspects of the role/company they discussed]. After our conversation, I'm even more excited about this opportunity because I can see how my experience with [specific skill/achievement] aligns perfectly with what you're looking for in [specific requirement they mentioned]. [Add 1-2 more quick, specific connections between your background and their needs]"
Why This Works
Think of interviews like songs - people remember:
The beginning
The end
How you made them feel
This closing strategy hits all three by:
Ending on a high note
Demonstrating active listening
Reinforcing your professional development
Showing genuine enthusiasm
Taking control of your career path
Real-World Example
Let me share how this might sound in practice:
"Thank you so much for your time today. Those are all my questions - I would like to say that I'm even more excited about this role after our conversation. I particularly enjoyed hearing about how your team is innovating in the career guidance space, and how you're looking for someone who can both analyze data and translate it into actionable insights. Given my background in data analytics at [Previous Company] where I helped increased cost savings by 115% and my experience teaching complex concepts to diverse audiences from one-on-one to hundreds, I'm confident I could make an immediate impact in this area. I'm also really drawn to your mission of helping students make better career decisions - it's something I wish I had access to when I was starting out!"
The Anti-Pattern to Avoid
Compare this to how most interviews end:
Interviewer: "Do you have any other questions?" Candidate: "Um... what's the company culture like?"
or
Candidate: "No, I think you've covered everything, thank you!"
See the difference? One leaves a lasting impression; the other fades into the background of every other interview that day.
Why We Built Advize
This is exactly why we built Advize - to help people navigate these crucial career moments more effectively. Every person who interviews with us says the same thing: "I wish I had Advize when I was a student!"
We're changing the way people research and prepare for career options by providing real, authentic insights into different roles and industries. But even with all the technology and innovation we're bringing to career planning, sometimes it's these simple, human techniques that make the biggest difference.
Pro Tips for Maximum Impact
Customize Your Closer
Reference specific points from the conversation
Connect your essential skills to their needs
Keep it concise (30-45 seconds max)
Sound natural, not rehearsed
Read the Room
Adjust your energy to match the interviewer's style
Be genuine in your enthusiasm
Make eye contact (even in virtual interviews)
Demonstrate your leadership skills
Practice, But Don't Memorize
Have your key points ready
Let the specific details come from the actual conversation
Keep it conversational
Show your understanding of industry needs
The Extra Mile: Post-Interview Strategy
Remember that your interaction doesn't end with the call. A strong follow-up can set you apart:
The Thank-You Note
Send within 24 hours
Reference specific conversation points
Include any additional information promised
Express continued interest
Keep it concise but personal
Demonstrate your professional growth
Ongoing Communication
Respond promptly to any follow-up questions
Keep them updated on your job search status
Share any relevant updates or achievements
Maintain professional enthusiasm
Show your commitment to career advancement
The Bottom Line
In today's competitive job market, every advantage matters. This technique has helped me and countless others stand out from the crowd. It's not about being clever or gaming the system - it's about taking full advantage of every opportunity to show why you're the right person for the role.
Remember: While other candidates are asking about parking situations or vacation policies (or worse, having no questions at all), you'll be reinforcing your value proposition and leaving a lasting impression.
Now go get 'em! And if you're a student reading this - check out Advize. We're here to help you navigate these crucial career decisions with confidence and authenticity. Because everyone deserves to have the insights and tools they need to succeed in their career journey.
Happy Interviewing!
Emily McSherry
CEO, Advize