The interview is your big chance to introduce yourself to your future employer face-to-face. You've done a lot of work to get an interview, and a little more preparation at this point can make the difference between having a quick chat...or landing a great new job!

Here, then, are 10 tips for a great interview:

 
  1. Interview yourself first. Know your skills. What do you offer a company? Make a list of your work strengths and goals. Be able to mention five unique qualities you could bring to your new job.
  2. Get to know their company. What kind of work do they do? How big a company is it? What is their company philosophy? What is your interviewer’s title?
  3. Rehearse. Have a friend interview you. Commonly asked questions:
    Why do you want to work for us? Where do you want to be in two years? How do you work under pressure?
  4. Pay attention to how you dress. Remember the famous line: You can never make a first impression twice. Neat, presentable, professional clothes make a strong statement about you.
  5. Be early. Arriving ten minutes early tells a prospective employer how your attendance will be on the job. If you are running late, stop and make a call. Remember to allow extra time if you are unfamiliar with the area, or if parking will be difficult.
  6. Smile. Rehearse a greeting ahead of time to break the ice.
  7. Sit up. During the interview, non-verbal communication is another clue for interviewers. They will watch how you sit and how you hold yourself. Remember to breathe. Be natural.
  8. Listen. And ask questions. What do you want to know about the company? Optimally, an interview is a dialogue – a chance for you both to get to know each other.
  9. Sell yourself. Qualities that are valued in today’s market include: poise, ambition, flexibility, initiative, trustworthiness, clarity and sincerity. Don’t be afraid to let them know your strengths.
  10. Follow up. The interview doesn’t end when you shake hands and say good-bye. Make sure you provide whatever references or paperwork requested by the interviewer as soon as possible and send a hand written thank you letter.