“The interviewer said something about notification, but I’m not sure if he will call me or I’m to call him,” a jobseeker told me as we reviewed his recent activity during a job counseling session. His statement suggested he was stymied by one of the hurdles that trip up many jobseekers: wrapping up an interview:

Read the signals Listen for verbal cues. When an interviewer asks for your questions, the interview is about over. Watch for visual cues. If the interviewer starts gathering his or her papers together, you should be ready to exit.

Speak up Ask for the job or for a second interview. This is not being pushy but demonstrates your interest in the job. Find out if the interviewer or someone else will make the hiring decision.

Confirm contact arrangements Ask and confirm the timetable in the process. Will the interviewer contact you? Or should you follow up? When?

Be a good closer Thank the interviewer by name. Take a business card, so you can be sure of how to spell it. Send a thank-you note within 48 hours to the interviewer and everyone else who was helpful during the interview process.

Do your homework Evaluate your performance in the job interview as soon as you get home. Continue to job search. Follow up according to plan.