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As a manager in a mid-sized company who has hired dozens of people over the past 15 years, here are some things I look for in people during interviews.

1. Familiarity with our company. If the person hasn't done the rudimentary work to find out about our company, they don't stand a chance with me. Information is so easily accessed online these days that there's no excuse to come to an interview without understanding what the company or organization does, how long it's been operating, its approximate size, etc.

2. Familiarity with our products. Similar to situation above, I expect the person to have at least attempted to check out our products through online resources, if not direct exposure. I will ask which product the person is familiar with, and what they like or don't like about it, or how they perceive it as compared to other on the market.

3. Ability to ask questions. Interviews are two-way conversations. I expect to be asked about the job, the company, etc. A person who is afraid to ask questions is not a person I can send out to represent our firm to the rest of the world.

4. Politeness and patience. I have something you want - a job. You want it pretty badly, because that's why you are spending your time (without compensation) to get to my office and meet with me. So be on your best behavior. Don't be arrogant. Don't act like you have somewhere else to go. Don't act like you know it all. We will be working as a team, and I want people who are pleasant to be with.

5. Articulateness. Speak clearly, plainly, and with correct grammar. I understand that you're nervous, and that you are not necessarily "at your best" in an interview situation. But don't be a bumbling, mumbling fool.

6. Be flexible. If I ask you to take an impromptu test, say yes. If I want to call in a couple of my colleagues for a quick hello, be ready for that. If I give you a strange "what if" scenario, come up with an answer.

7. Humor is great. Everyone can't be funny, but humor is a great additional factor in a close decision.

8. Follow up by email or letter. And make it prompt. Woody Allen once said that "90% of life is just showing up." I think that applies to the business world; 90% of success is just doing the basics, like being polite and following up with people you meet. So I want to see that you understand my expectation.

Learn more about this author, B. B. James.
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