You're in a panel interview crunch. How do you wrap up efficiently while hitting all the key points?

It's easy to close at the end of a 1-to-1 interview to finish. Bawlsy close... "What reservations do you have for my suitability for this positions" Presumptive close ... "What would be the next steps and when will I hear from you" Ego booster close .... "Thanks for your time, it was exciting to hear about your XYZ project. I've successfully delivered on a similar project (reflecting on your story earlier in the interview), it would be great to be part of your team on this project" With a panel interview, things can end abruptly. As the Lead interviewer starts wrapping up the other interviewers quickly acknowledge the end and a barrier is created. Keep an eye on the Lead interviewer and prime yourself for the end statement

"Time is the most valuable thing a man can spend," said Theophrastus. In a panel interview, time management is crucial. Keep an eye on the clock, ensuring that each panelist has their say while leaving enough room for key questions. If you notice the discussion going off-track, gently steer it back. By respecting everyone’s time, you demonstrate professionalism and efficiency—qualities that reflect well on both you and the candidate.

This is particularly important during a panel interview. Once you have a good sense that the interview is wrapping up, it′s time to assess how things are going and make changes as needed. If you are pressed for time, refrain from introducing new information. So, instead of saying all this crap that will get you DQed from the process., Reiterate and double down these key qualification & experience points which make a really good fit for the role. Highlight your two or three main strengths, focus on how they align with job requirements and state you are excited about the opportunity. It is designed to get you in the door, make last impression and that lasts.

Within a panel interview there tends to be a Lead Interviewer They will have asked the most questions and had the greatest amount of consensus and ackowledgement from the other interviewers. They are probably the most senior. Chances are, you'll be wanting to leave a good impression with them. Clarifying any reservations they might have. Try not to forget the other Interviewers. Maybe someone on the panel was very quiet, more of an observer. At the end, if you are asking the panel whether they have reservations or any points they'd like clarifying, send the question out to ALL interviewers.

Like in sales, a strong close can leave a lasting impression. Use the final moments to succinctly highlight the role’s benefits, the company’s values, and what sets this opportunity apart. Think of it as your elevator pitch—short, impactful, and memorable. Conclude by expressing genuine interest in how the candidate can contribute, making it clear that they’re valued and wanted.

This is the final close. Whatever the job is you are going for, this final close needs to bring out the sales person in you. Through the interview, you'll have identified the key need for this position. They might simply need more bums on seats They need a leader and someone to mentor others They need a specific skill Your final pitch aligns your offering with their need. For example, if they are needing someone to start yesterday (they are a person down). The fact you can join immediately and would accept the role if offered - this is your close. Not that you are an expert with XYZ system.

As a Tech Recruiter with 25+ years experience, I've learnt that end questions are key to interview success This is client feedback from 100's of interviews I advise my candidates to prepare at least x3 questions Maybe a better question will come to you in the interview, but you need a fall back Also, final questions should not be about you e.g "How many days holiday" They should be about them "When are you wanting to kick off the project" "How are you measuring success for this position"

"Leave them wanting more," as the saying goes. Wrapping up an interview gracefully is about leaving a positive lasting impression. Summarize the discussion, thanking the candidate for their time and input. Ensure they know the next steps and timeline. A warm, confident exit not only closes the interview on a high note but also sets the tone for future interactions, reflecting the company’s culture of respect and professionalism.