When applying for a job, keep in mind that you’re up against other, possibly hundreds, of job seekers who are as eagerly eyeballing the same position as you do.  Getting a notice for an interview means you have hurdled the initial winnowing process and must now step up to the next stage. You must not squander that one golden chance to make an impression that will land you the job.

Here are a few pointers to help you breeze through the interview and be on the shortlist, if not on top of the list!

Be prepared.  Getting ready means learning everything about your possible employer, including consulting people you know from inside for useful bits that can project your enthusiasm and competence.  Once you’ve done your homework, practice conversing in front of the mirror with emphasis on looking natural.  Look up trick interview questions and answers and practice how to respond to them without sounding rehearsed.

Dress to impress. What you wear tells your interviewer how serious you are about getting hired.  As a rule, it is better to be overdressed than be too casual.  The position you are applying for should also guide you on what to wear.  If you’re up for an office job, a dark suit will work fine for both sexes.  If you’re interested to work in a factory, a buttoned-down shirt with tie over slacks would do for men while a smart blouse and skirt or slacks would be appropriate for women.  Of course, you must also look neat and tidy, making sure to clean your nails, comb your hair, etc.

Don’t be late but don’t be too early either.  Being punctual is a no brainier, but don’t give the impression that you’re too eager or even desperate by coming more than 10 minutes early.

Get a good grip on the situation. Unless you’re acquainted with the interviewer, how you dress and execute a handshake provide the first impressions about you.  As your hands clasp, make your grip firm yet not overpowering and let go within three seconds.  The limp “Dead Fish” handshake communicates weakness and lack of interest.  And don’t pump your interviewer’s arm which can make you come across as too aggressive.

Look confident. Maintain good posture without looking stiff and don’t fidget on your seat.  Maintain eye contact but be careful to shift your eyes from time to time.  When you speak, take your time and avoid word crutches like “umms” and “ahhs”.

Take the cue from the interviewer.  How you respond should depend on the tone which your interviewer sets.  If he or she is businesslike, so should you. If the atmosphere is casual and friendly, be personable without appearing too familiar.

Mind your manners. Start by being nice to the receptionist.  Address the interviewer by name after asking permission to do so.  It’s good to sound interested and knowledgeable, but don’t talk too much and avoid slangs and expletives.  While discussing job history, don’t malign your previous employer.  Also avoid asking about salary, benefits, and the like unless your interviewer opens a discussion on such subjects.

Showcase your strong points and how they relate to the job you’re applying for. Point out the reasons why you’re right for the job and will be a valuable addition to the company.  Highlight your unique skills and experience, especially how you helped your previous employers move up.  Avoid generalizations like being an “excellent team player” or “likes to take the initiative” and concentrate instead on specific examples that illustrate those qualities.

Ask a few ‘intelligent’ questions of your own.  Asking questions, especially those that deal with the requirements of the position and the company’s expectations, gives the impression that you’re really interested to do a good job.  Exercise prudence, however, and don’t make it look like you’re turning the tables on the interviewer.

Be grateful. Send your interviewer a thank-you email immediately after your meeting.  This will help emphasize your professionalism and interest for the job.

Follow up. Making a brief phone call within a reasonable period after the interview helps strengthen the perception of your interest for the job.  Use polite and professional language when making your inquiry and end it with another ‘thank you’ for having been considered.

Being prepared is the foundation of a fruitful interview session.  The internet has everything you need to research the company and the almost generic questions which are asked during your face-to-face encounter.  Taking your time to look them up and exercising presence of mind during the meeting will help you stand out.