Interview Tips

Get comfortable talking about yourself, your career and your accomplishments. Practice out loud and in front of family and friends.

Honesty, integrity, attitude, verbal skills and enthusiasm are the top qualities most employers are looking for in a candidate. Employers will ask questions that require candidates to talk about weaknesses, and take your body language into account as part of the answer.

Enthusiasm can sometimes offset a lack of experience or lack of training in some area.

And watch the "umms," "likes" and "you knows."

Bring with you your Social Security number or card, driver's license, résumé, and the names, job titles, addresses and phone numbers of three references.

Don't make your #1 choice of employment your first interview.

Know exactly why an employer should hire you and articulate this by citing experiences that best demonstrate your capabilities.

Wear comfortable, professional clothing. Do not chew gum or smoke.

Display a competitive edge. Think of leadership positions you have taken on and show how you have succeeded.

Be a great conversationalist. Many interviewers complain that they have a difficult time getting candidates to talk. Think of the interview as a two-way conversation in which you describe your most relevant skills, ask intelligent questions and convey a sense of enthusiasm about the position. Don't wait passively for the interviewer to ask you about your strongest qualities; make sure you work them into the discussion at every opportunity.