by B Borcyk

Created on: December 28, 2010   Last Updated: December 31, 2010

The job interview is all about the first impression. If the first impression is negative, the dream job is lost. However, even with a good impression, no job is set in stone. The most important thing to do is be prepared for the interview and hope for the best. However, several tips can help build confidence before the interview.

Be prepared. Before the interview, be sure the resume is the most current edition, and print out several copies of it and the reference page on professional-quality resume paper. (It is good to have several copies in the case of a panel interview, which is gaining in popularity.) Also, think of some points to share regarding previous job experiences and coursework, in order to incorporate tidbits into answers to any questions the interviewer may ask.

Dress for success. The interview outfit should be chosen to fit the type of position being interviewed for. If the position is for a commission sales position, a business suit would be most fitting. If the interview is for a hair design position, a unique and stylish hairstyle along with an outfit from a well-known designer would suit best. An excellent tip is to bring the outfit on its hanger into the bathroom throughout the pre-interview shower. This way, the humidity in the room will get any last-remaining wrinkles out of it.

Be on time. An interview is not the time for extremes. Extremely early and extremely late are both irritating to interviewers. The ideal arrival time should be no more than ten minutes before the scheduled time, and the only reason for this is to fill out any required applications and/or paperwork required before the interview.

Be organized. Paperwork should be kept in a professional-looking folder, such as a leather-bound portfolio. Unless the interview is for a creative position in graphic design or another such position, resume paper should be neutral and scent-free, and the folder is best in neutral as well, preferably black.

Smile. Everyone who interviews is somewhat nervous. Some are simply better at hiding it. Smiling is a great way to hide it, because those who smile seem more confident and passionate about what they do.

Think before answering questions. When the interviewer asks a question, think carefully before answering. Answer the question and only the question, without any additional commentary. Also refrain from mentioning negative information about previous positions, managers or coworkers.

Be precise . It is important to state the message exactly as it is meant to be perceived. This requires preparation and careful consideration of messages that should not be conveyed.

Ask permission to begin again. Interviews can be nerve-wracking, and interviewers are aware of this. They also realize that rambling can happen. However, the best course of action in this situation is to stop, take a breath, and ask permission to begin again. The second time, be sure to think carefully before speaking and be very clear about the message.

Ask questions. Think of at least one question to ask the interviewer so that when he or she says, “Do you have any questions for me?” there will be something other than dead air. The question should be thoughtful and should not be something that could be answered by reading the company website.

Thank the interviewer. Interviewers are often impressed by a warm thank you, particularly in card form. It is much easier to remember someone who sent a thank you card rather than someone who blends in with the rest of the crowd.

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