10 Tips to Help You Ace the Interview and Get the Job
Also: 8 Easy Steps to a Winning Interview, Eighteen "Do Nots" For Your Next Job Interview, The #1 Way To Kill A Phone Interview

The interview is the "beauty contest" part of the job search process. Interviewers get to compare candidates by asking them similar questions and comparing the answers. Being just the right person for the job won't help you if you blow the interview.

Here are ten tips to help you come out of the interview with a job offer.

1. Show responsibility by arriving on time.

Nothing sets you off on the wrong foot more than arriving late for an interview. No matter what reason you have, it won't completely erase the impression that you are disorganized and irresponsible.

2. Show confidence through a strong handshake, a pleasant expression and an upbeat manner.

Although you may not feel particularly confident, it's important to look as if you are. Perception is everything when creating a good impression. Weak handshakes are a turnoff, so practice to make sure yours is strong. Sometimes we think we are smiling when we are not, so look in a mirror, smile and remember how your face feels when you are smiling. If you smile, extend your hand confidently and introduce yourself with energy, the interviewer will want to get to know you.

3. Show initiative by researching the company in advance.

Even small organizations have websites, so there's really no excuse for not knowing some basic information about the company before the interview. If you ask questions that could clearly have been answered through half-an-hour of browsing, you'll come off as someone with no initiative or common sense.

4. Show your priorities by focusing on the job before asking about benefits and perks.

When it's your turn to ask questions, focus on aspects of the job and the company and even the department. There will be plenty of time to discuss benefits when you and the interviewer have agreed that you are a good candidate for the job. Asking about perks, benefits and even salary too early in the conversation marks you as too to be a team player.

5. Show composure under pressure by asking well thought-out, meaningful questions.

When you browse the company's website, think of what else you would like to know. What questions does the website bring up for you? Use your knowledge to ask meaningful questions, and practice in advance because it's important not to stumble over the words. And, most importantly, listen to the answers.

Part II read here: job interviewing skills

Also: Interview Body Language, 8 Easy Steps to a Winning Interview, Eighteen "Do Nots" For Your Next Job Interview, The #1 Way To Kill A Phone Interview