Shake hands firmly. Radiate confidence. Smile. Dress conservatively. Be on time. Be natural. Be well groomed. Remember the interviewer’s name.

Look alert. Sit up erect. Look into your interviewer’s eyes at all times. Speak with force and assurance. Interviewers like candidates who are enthusiastic and responsive.

Don’t be anxious, even if you want and need the job. (The company wants someone who is a winner and in demand.) Ask questions about the position -- show your serious interests in the duties and responsibilities of the position.

Answer questions openly without holding back. Yet be direct and to the point, avoiding long, drawn-out explanations.

If put on the defensive (e.g. "Why did you changed jobs?" Why are you looking now?") answer as simply and briefly as possible. Keep smiling. (An involved answer looks like trouble.)

Don’t dwell on criticism of your present or previous employers. (The prospective employer will expect similar treatment, which means trouble.)

Treat the interviewer with respect. He may be under business pressures and unable to give you the time and attention you should have.

Do not smoke during the interview, and NEVER chew gum. Do not ask direct questions about salary or fringe benefits at the beginning of the interview.

Prepare for these two questions: Why are you interested in this position and this company? What can you contribute?

Answer concisely and effectively, rehearse answers. Do your homework and learn all you can about the company.

Stress achievements. For example: Processes developed, sales records achieved, systems installed, absenteeism reduced, product or production improved, etc. Don’t exaggerate your skills or accomplishments.

 
Prepare for the following questions: What was the nature of your job? What special skills did you acquire?

Did you achieve special goals? What was the typical day like on your job? What were your supervisor’s strengths? Weaknesses? Why are you considering leaving your present job?

Beware of open-ended questions like, "Tell me about yourself", etc. Give one example of an achievement and ask, "Is that what you had in mind?"

Beware of slouching in chair, tapping feet, playing with eyeglasses, pencil, or nervous laughter. LOOK INTERVIEWER IN EYE.

Never tell anyone you are not interested in the job. Leave the door open. The first interview is not the place to turn down an offer. Do not tell about interviews you have had or plan to have.

If you are favorably impressed and know all the details of the position, then ask for the job. This is very effective - yet few ask.

In concluding, thank the interviewer for the time and consideration given you.

Ask when you should meet again to discuss the position further. It often takes several interviews to obtain the job offer.

Following the interview, send a note of thanks ASAP. Five or six sentences should be sufficient. This will set you apart from most other applicants. Write a separate note to each interviewer; obtain correct name and title spelling from receptionist or secretary. Or ask for a business card and give yours in return.