Instructions

1

Search for information on the company. A simple Internet search should result in several links to the company's press releases, media coverage and other opinions. Entrepreneur and author David Silverman suggests that you tie in material from your research into your answers. For example, if the interviewer indicates that you will be working on a particular project, mention that you saw the press release announcing its launch. Follow up with a couple of clarifying questions, such as how many people will be working on the project and if the regulatory agencies have issued the necessary approvals. This demonstrates that you care enough about the job to have done basic research and analysis.
2

Show up about 10 minutes ahead of the scheduled start time. Dress conservatively. Even if you have other interviews scheduled, do not give the impression during an interview that you would much rather be somewhere else. However, showing interest does not mean looking desperate, such as showing up an hour early for the interview or conveying the impression that you will accept any job.
3

Greet your interviewer with a firm handshake and a smile. Maintain eye contact throughout the interview. Address your interviewer formally, unless he asks you to use his first name. Sit up straight. Lean forward to make a point. Do not slouch or put your feet up on a spare chair. Maintain a positive and friendly demeanor throughout the interview.
4

Ask questions during the interview. Companies usually reserve time at the end for interviewees to ask questions. Silverman suggests that if you do not ask questions, the interviewer might feel that you are not interested in the job or that you cannot show interest in other people. Examples of thoughtful questions include why the job is vacant and how the project fits into the company's long-term plans. Do not ask about salary unless the employer brings it up.
5

Listen to the interviewer. Do not interrupt the interviewer and do not monopolize the conversation by providing long rambling answers. That is not how you show interest. Interviews are a chance for employers to ask questions of candidates, not the other way around. Provide concise answers and ask quick follow-up questions where appropriate.
6

Inquire about the next steps in the process, including when you should expect to hear from the employer. A week or so after the interview, follow up with a phone call or email. However, do not pester the employer with repeated phone calls and emails. The former shows interest, the latter reflects desperation.