A comedian’s audience is less likely to remember a long set full of laughs if the final joke bombs. That’s why great comedians end their set with their strongest joke, the one they’ve practiced and tweaked and perfected until it’s guaranteed to land when delivered well.

The last impression is the one people remember, something I’ve written about before. And like a comedian, you don’t have to leave your last impression to chance. You can orchestrate it to land just as you need it to.

How will you end your next club meeting?
What’s the right final paragraph for your college essay?
What will your thank-you note say to your letter of rec writers?
Will you give a good handshake and express your appreciation at the conclusion of your college interview?

Put a different way—a comedian doesn’t count on doing a repeat performance for any crowd. If this person or group never again had the chance to interact with you, what kind of last impression are you leaving?