The interview is the single most important aspect in job hunting. Good grades, an excellent degree, lengthy experience, and a sharp-looking resume won’t compensate for a poor impression made during an interview. You must be able to sell yourself effectively. More often than not, it is the small details such as appearance, handshake, etc., that spell the difference between being selected or rejected for a job. Be thorough in your preparation!

Since each interview is unique, the more you interview the more confident and skillful you will become.

Preparation:
Conduct a Self-Assessment
Take an honest look at yourself focusing on such factors as:

Personality—What kind of person are you? Strengths? Weaknesses?
Interests—What do you enjoy doing?
Abilities/Skills—What do you do well?
Values—Why do you want to work?
Goals—Where would you like to be in five years?
Experience—What have you accomplished?

Study the Organization
Review company literature.
Prepare important and relevant questions for the interview sessions.
Ask others about the organization.
Develop a clear understanding as to why you have selected them.
Try and discover problems the organization may have and reflect on how you might be able to help them.

Check Appearance
If possible visit the organization.
Notice how employees are dressed.
Pay attention to grooming, styles, etc.

The Initial Interview
Be Yourself. Your attitude is going to influence the interviewer’s evaluation. Don’t try to be someone you aren’t...just be yourself. Emphasize your strong points and remember that the recruiter is looking for inherent personal energy and enthusiasm. The interview is your opportunity to sell a product and that product is you.

Dwell on the Positive. Try always to dwell on the positive. While past failures and shortcomings need not be volunteered, don’t try to cover them up or sidestep them. Should the recruiter ask about them, try to explain the circumstances rather than give excuses or blame others. Remember, the recruiter is human, too...and probably has made a few mistakes. You’ll create a better impression by being honest and candid.

Ask Questions—When Indicated. If appropriate, ask meaningful questions, particularly if you’re not clear about the details of the job, the training program, or other job-related concerns, but don’t ask questions just because you think that’s what is expected.

Some Do’s and Don’ts in Successful Interviewing:

DO

Act natural
Be prompt, neat, and courteous
Carry out promises
Ask relevant questions
Allow employer to express himself/herself
Read company literature
Examine company ratings
Evaluate objectively
Follow procedures
Make yourself understood
Listen to the other person
Present informative credentials
Think of your potential service to the employer

DON’T

Criticize yourself
Be late for your interview
Freeze or become tense
Present an extremist appearance
Become impatient
Become emotional
Talk too much or too little
Oversell your case
Draw out interview
Make elaborate promises
Come unprepared
Try to be funny
Unduly emphasize starting salary
Linger over fringe benefits  

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