Congratulations! Now that you have some interviews set up, it’s time to brush up on those skills and prepare yourself for creating a great first impression. Before each interview, there are many things to think about, so create a checklist and methodically review each item. Here are some ideas:

Confirm location and directions, time, and name of person you’ll be meeting with. This is easily done at the end of that phone call informing you of the interview. If not, make sure you can read your notes and don’t worry about making a phone call back to confirm details. Know who to ask for and which building or reception area to sign in. Check your map and determine your commute time – there are no good excuses for being late to an interview!

Practice and role play the interview situation. Enlist the help of someone to act as interviewer. Be sure they include “behavioral” questions, such as “Tell me about a time when you were faced with a challenge at work”. These are open ended questions meant to elicit conversation and description from you about real-life workplace events. Don’t forget to practice your answer for the one of the most popular: “Tell me about yourself”. Prepare a concise, work-focused answer that will peak their interest and make them want to know more about you.

Listen to yourself speak – make a recording and listen to your answers. Your communication style and use of proper grammar are more important than you might think. Choose appropriate words, avoid the slang of the day, and speak clearly. Think about how you’ll greet the receptionist or other employees you may come in contact with. Communication is key in every situation, so brush up and remember to look people in the eyes and smile while speaking.

Review company website or literature and prepare your own informed questions. An interview should be a 2-way conversation, an exchange of information. As much as this is the interviewer’s time to learn more about you, so is it your chance to learn more about them! You need information and confirmation about the job in order to make an informed decision. You could be spending lots of your life at this company, so take advantage of this opportunity.

Get clear on why you really want this job. What is it that appealed to you about the open position in the first place? Is it the work environment, the industry, the company’s reputation? Why are you the right person for this job? What are the benefits to them in hiring you? Review your reasons for applying so that you can convey your interest, even your passion, during the interview.

It’s always a good idea to take a fresh copy of your resume and cover letter with you to an interview. Your interviewer may want another copy, especially if they only have a computerized version. Review these documents prior to interviewing in case there are specific questions about them. Be sure to take anything else they’ve asked for, such as work or personal references. These should be printed on a separate piece of paper and always be up-to-date.

Finally, think about first impressions. Your posture and mannerisms count as much as your physical appearance. Practice a firm handshake and make eye contact. Think about what you’ll wear. Conventional wisdom is that you can’t go wrong with a skirt or pants suit for women and coat and tie for men. While that is true, it’s also ok to accessorize and accent with colors and items reflecting your personality. Just don’t overdo it! Make it appropriate to the situation and don’t let anything you wear be a distraction. Be comfortable and well groomed at the same time. You only have one chance to make a good first impression.

By going through a similar checklist prior to your interview, you’ll be well prepared and exude confidence that says you are the right person for that job. Then you can move onto the next step - deciding which job offer to accept!