Dress for Success: While your ability to field questions and communicate your skills successfully is indispensable, there are other, seemingly superficial, issues to be considered. An important, overly neglected, component of the job interview is "dressing for success". How you look contributes to the interviewer's overall impression. Be sure to present yourself in a professional manner. Generally, when in doubt, it is wise to dress on the conservative side. Seeing how others dress at your prospective place of employment is also a good idea. If this makes the individualist shudder (I'm going to dress however I like! They'll just have to take it or leave it.)--remember: once you have gotten the job you may have the freedom to express your personal style; until then, avoid creating unnecessary strikes against you.

Realize that you are starting with a big advantage. You are the person selected for the interview, so you have a big plus going for you right from the start. Display a positive self-image; be confident, show energy and enthusiasm. First impression are important. Many employers make a judgment within the first four minutes. A positive self-image communicates itself instantly to others.

The following quote may put things in perspective for you:
- Write down the exact time and location of the interview, and keep this information with you. Know the names and titles of the interview panel. Don't rely on memory; it may fail you.
- Know the company - what does it do? Where does it operate? Before your interview, do some research. You are then able to ask intelligent questions and show a genuine interest in the position.
- Information can be found in the public relations department, year-end reports, newsletters, the library, or by asking people in the business.
- Be well rehearsed regarding:
- possible interview questions;
- the actual job;
- your skills and accomplishments in relation to the job duties;
- questions you want to ask;
- the organization.
- Arrive early. If you are kept waiting, don't let it make you nervous. Spend the time reading company materials - there is usually some available for visitors.
- Be prepared for the possibility of testing, and gear yourself mentally for the possibility that this interview may lead to another.