How To Nail Job Interview Tips

It's important to nail a good impression at the first job interview because most interviewers form their opinion of you in the first few minutes.

Here's a few tips to help you with your interview. You may want to talk to people who have worked at the company. If it's practical, hang around outside the building while employees are arriving and note how they dress and behave.

Learn the name and title of the person you'll be meeting with. Arrive at least 10 minutes early to collect your thoughts. Take time to greet and acknowledge the secretary or administrative assistant. This might be old-fashioned courtesy, but this person may provide some influence.

Always bring an extra resume and letters of recommendation in case the interviewer doesn't have them handy. Be open and upbeat. Face your interviewer with arms and legs uncrossed, head up, and hands and face at ease. Smile and always look the interviewer in the eye because this builds honesty and trust.

Know the company's business, target clients, market and direction cold. Walk in prepared with a few relevant questions and listen carefully. Subtly give the impression that you're already part of the team by using "we" when asking how something is done. For example, say, "How do we deal with the press?"

Conclude with a positive statement and a quick, firm handshake. Ask when you might follow up, and get a business card from the interviewer. And one of the most important steps is to send a thank-you note. This shows responsibility.