From the moment of contact, whether it is on the phone, email or in person, the employer will begin evaluating you as the interview process has begun. To give an edge over your competition it is critical that you are prepared so the interviewer will see a professional individual that wants to work for their company.

Preparing for the Interview
- Keep writing tools by the phone so that when the employer contacts you to schedule an interview they will not have to wait while you search for a pen and paper. Write down the location, get directions if you need to, inquire about parking and make sure you note if they ask you to bring any additional documentation.
- Continue your research about the company. Scan the headlines of your local paper to learn as much as you can. Search the company name in Yahoo, Lycos and other search engines online.
- Revisit the job advertisement and highlight those that directly match your experience and qualifications.
- Take a few minutes to analyze how this opportunity will impact your immediate and long-term career development.
- Bring 2-3 copies of your resume to the interview.
- Greet your interviewer with a firm handshake, eye contact and an enthusiastic smile.
- Make sure you arrive at the interview at least 10 minutes early to give yourself a little time to relax. Also give yourself plenty of time for any traffic delays.
- An interview is a "two-way street." Know what questions to ask during the interview and how to answer questions. Remember a lack of questions may be mistaken as a lack of interest.

Example Questions
Be prepared to ANSWER Such Questions As... Tell me about yourself? Tell me about your background, accomplishments? What are your strengths? Weaknesses? How would you describe your most recent job performance? What interests you about our company? How do you stay professionally current?
And, be prepared to ASK questions, such as... What would I be expected to accomplish in this position? What are the greatest challenges in this position? How do you think I fit the position?

Proper Attire
Your attire should reflect the company's dress as closely as possible. If you are applying to a warehouse job, you should wear nice jeans and a collared casual shirt - not a suit or a dress. Here is some guidelines for all jobs.

WOMEN
- Solid colors are best for dresses and suits. Aloha attire if appropriate, but try to avoid bright colors
- Avoid open toe shoes
- Limit your use of jewelry. Try not to use big earrings or things that make noise when you move such as bangle bracelets
- Wear panty hose if wearing a dress or skirt. Knee-highs are okay with dress pants or long dresses
- Hair should be clean and neat, keep it away from your face
- Be careful when using make up. Keep it light and natural
- Perfume should be kept to a minimum, if wore at all
MEN
- Wear slacks with an aloha shirt or collared shirt. If you wear a suit, it is recommended to use a white shirt and conservative tie
- Wear dark socks that match your slacks
- Make sure your shoes are clean and shined
- Again, don't overdue it with the jewelry
- watch, wedding ring and school rings are acceptable
- Hair should be cut and styled, if you have long hair tie it back neatly
- Either clean shaven or neatly trimmed facial hair

The Interviewer
- For hiring managers, selecting a right person means they have found an individual capable of performing the tasks needed. More importantly, they look for individuals that have the potential and drive to be a future resource in their company.
- The interviewer will be the one who will determine who the right person is.
- You are being interviewed to determine whether you have the qualifications necessary to do the job AND whether a rewarding professional relationship can be formed.

The Interview
- Answer questions by speaking in terms of the position and you.
- Emphasize what you can do for the company, talk in terms of measurable outcomes.
- Explain how your past experience and qualifications will help you to do the job.
- Present yourself in the best possible light, be yourself.
- Emphasize your capability to work with others and self-directed.
- Don't forget to smile and be enthusiastic.
- If you are really interested in the position, let the interviewer know that you want the position. Don't be afraid to ask for the job with confidence.
- Don't get down on yourself if no commitment is made. The interviewer will probably want to talk to others in the company and interview other prospective candidates.
- If you get the impression that the interview is not going well and that you have already been rejected, don't let your discouragement show. Once in a while an interviewer who is genuinely interested in you may seem to discourage you as a way of testing your reaction.
- Get his or her business card and send a thank you letter as soon as possible.

Two Critical Closing Questions
"Do you have any other questions regarding my background?"
"This is a great opportunity. I am more than just interested - when will the next interview be?"

The Job Interview: Most Common Mistakes
1.Not knowing enough about the company, its products, its industry, the present market conditions in which it operates.
2. Inappropriate dress and/or attitude. Dress appropriate.
3. Arriving late. Always make a point of arriving 10-15 minutes early for the interview.
4.Not introducing yourself with a handshake and maintaining eye contact.
5. Misrepresenting your skills and experience. Don't overdue it.
6. Not appearing enthusiastic about the position. Whatever you do, do not appear distracted or nervous.
7. Asking for more money than the position is paying.
8. Making negative remarks about your previous employer. Show the interviewer your enthusiasm for the work you do. When asked why you are leaving your present employer, talk about the new challenges and opportunities you are seeking.
9. Don't ask what the company can do for you, but instead what you can contribute to the company.
10. Asking about the salary too early in the interview.