If you’re currently in the job market, chances are you’re going to have to go through an interview. Although these can be intimidating, it’s actually much easier to be successful than you might think. With a little time and preparation, you’ll be through the interview and into your job in no time.

  • Be prepared.  Go into your interview with some idea of the questions you are likely to be asked.  These are going to vary depending on the job for which you are interviewing.  In general, they will be probing questions, as  your potential employer wants to know as much about you and your qualifications before they consider hiring you.  Questions like “Why do you think you would be qualified for this job?” and “How would you handle a particular situation?” will almost certainly come up, so be prepared to answer them completely and effectively.
  • Know your resume.  Although it might be tempting to overload your resume with every single job and activity you have done in the last ten years, sometimes less is more.  Don’t include anything on your resume that you’re not prepared to discuss at length.  If you put down that you were chef at a top restaurant, be prepared to explain to your interviewer your responsibilities, what restaurant you worked at, etc.  If you put something on your resume and then aren’t able to explain anything about it, you could quit easily lose the job, even if you’re qualified otherwise.  
  • Dress appropriately.  If you’re going to be interviewing for a position, keep in mind that first impressions are crucial.  Don’t show up to the interview in cargo shorts and a cutoff T-Shirt.  Right away a potential employer will write you off as someone who isn’t taking this seriously and would probably not do well in the position they are offering.  In general, proper interview attire consists of the following:  a collared shirt (preferably a button-up, but a polo can also be acceptable,) dress pants (khakis or black dress pants,) and dress shoes.  A tie is optional.  
  • Be well-groomed.  Presenting a well-kempt appearance is just as important as clothing.  The best suit in the world isn’t going to do you any good if your hair is greasy and uncombed and your fingernails are dirty.  Take a shower, comb/gel your hair, trip your nails, your beard, and any other grooming items that need attended to.  It could mean the difference between a job and the unemployment line.
  • Be on time.  Nothing destroys a potential interview like lateness.  On the other hand, few things impress an employer more than punctuality.  In today’s economy, time equals money, so it’s always best to make absolutely certain that you show up to the interview on time.  In fact, I recommend showing up a few minutes early.  This will show your potential employer not only your ability to follow directions, but also indicate your seriousness about pursuing the position.  
  • Stay cool and collected during the interview.  Although it can often be very intimidating to be so thoroughly questioned by someone, it’s vital to show poise throughout the whole process.  Answer all questions fully and completely.  If you need to, take a few minutes to think about the question before answering.  Sometimes it’s better to be silent and think of a really good answer, than to blurt out the first thing that comes to mind.

Follow these simple instructions, and in no time you’ll land your dream job.  Happy interviewing!