Whether its a career change or promotion, dont take for granted interview basics: arrive on time to the meeting, dress and behave as a professional, and have a resume in hand that reflects your best attributes. But besides these absolutes, heres what to do to make you a standout job candidate.

* Preparation at home should include use of your mirror to watch your body language and work on smooth gestures. Tape record your voice and listen to your vocal quality. Nearly everyone is nervous at job interviews. Practice how you present yourself so you can look and sound your best.

* Go over your own job history and know it well. Be able to answer questions that emphasize your strengths and demonstrate where you excelled in past scenarios, e.g., What was an experience you had as a leader or manager on a new project? At Samson, Inc., I recognized the need for a new employee handbook and led a ten person think-tank group to revise it. After that, our employee retention rate was the best it had ever been for the next seven years I was with them.

* By the time youve made it to the interview they know you have the qualifications. If your interviewer doesnt have an easy open and close comment, you should, since first and last impressions are memorable. A good opener is about the company itself, whereas mentioning traffic, the weather or the family photos on your interviewers desk, are over-used. Closing lines should include your appreciation and next steps you will each take.

* Even a well-rehearsed job candidate knows they cant manufacture chemistry ? its either there or its not. Regardless of what you demonstrate in experience and abilities, if you wow them to get the job, youre destined to repeat that performance for the long-term. No one is that good of an actor. Be yourself and have them get a feel for who you are, without stating anything too personal.

* Ideal job candidates are assertive, straightforward and authentic. They model a balanced personality with behavior that is calm, but show they are able to take charge and be effective. Look for ways to demonstrate the benefit you will bring to the company and dont just talk about what youve done before. The interviewer will think, This is someone who is able to instill confidence in those around them. Later you will have a chance to prove them right with your leadership work style and pleasant demeanor.

* Many interviews fall short because the candidates desperation for work or need for validation in getting an offer, drove the offer in the opposite direction. Your confidence, commitment, yet unattached behavior will make a difference.

* Dont be too quick to compromise, yet know your bottom line. If getting continuing education is an important aspect of the new job, stick to it in the negotiation phase. Just be sure you weigh the pros and cons. Is it more important to work with these people and do this kind of work? With competition for good positions, perhaps not getting school thrown in as a benefit will be a tradeoff you can make.

With these tips for self-confident behavior, a rehearsed interview process and knowledgeable straight talk during the actual interview, youll soon have an offer that will satisfy you and your new employer.

Laurie A. Sheppard 2006 All Rights Reserved

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