You got the interview...now what?!

You've been waiting and hoping and, finally, it happens. That company that you applied to weeks ago finally called and you are scheduled for an in person interview on Friday. Panic sets in as you begin to think about it--relax, you'll be great! Of course you want to look your best, be rested, take several copies of your resume, be 10 minutes early (never more and NEVER, EVER, EVER, late), google the company and learn as much as possible (not just the first paragraph of their website--really research including competitors, products, culture, etc) and make sure you know where you are going.

Here are a few helpful tips for during the interview:

Always present yourself confidently and offer a firm handshake. A handshake is very important and it conveys your confidence. Look the interviewer(s) in the eye and say “it’s a pleasure to meet you” or some other greeting during the handshake.

Sit up straight during the interview—do not slouch.

Don’t fidget

Maintain eye contact

Listen carefully and reiterate back important points stated by the interviewer in your answers.

Never interrupt.

Avoid making inappropriate remarks or statements—in general, stay away from anything person unless prompted and then answer concisely and move on (see list of illegal interview questions).

Speak clearly and project confidence. You are there to let the interviewer know that you are the right candidate for the job and why.

Make a list of questions from which you can ask at the end of the interview when the interviewer asks “Do you have any questions for me?”. Questions to avoid are salary, hours, bonus information or anything else that is not directly related to the work you would be doing, the job itself or the company.

Never talk bad about a previous employer or company. Try to avoid negativity altogether.

Stay focused and on topic.

Always thank the interview for his/her time and make a parting statement such as “I hope that I will hear from you” or “

It is appropriate at the end of the interview to include a question as to where the company is in their search and if you should expect to be notified if you are not selected to continue in the interviewing process.

Ok, so you're there, you look good, you have made a solid impression--but are you prepared for the hard questions? Here are some practice questions to get you ready:

"Tell me about yourself."
This is usually the opening question in an interview and it's the perfect moment for you to toot your own horn -- not to tell your life history. Your answers should be a quick rundown of your qualifications and experience. Talk about your education, work history, recent career experience and future goals.
Suggested answer: "I graduated from University X and since then, I have been working in public relations with an agency where I have generated millions of PR hits for my clients. While I've enjoyed working on the agency side, I'm looking to expand my horizons and start doing PR for corporate companies such as this one."

Why did you leave your last job?"
This is your chance to talk about your experience and your career goals, not to badmouth a former boss or give a laundry list of reasons for your exit. Instead, focus on what you learned in your previous position and how you are ready to use those skills in a new position.
Suggested answer: "The company just wasn't a good fit for my creativity, but I learned that organizations have distinct personalities just like people do. Now I know where I'll be a better fit."

"Where do you see yourself in five years?"
Let the employer know that you're stable and you want to be with this company for the long haul. Keep your aspirations to take over the firm with which you are interviewing, own your own company, retire at 40 or be married with five children to yourself.
Suggested answer: "I want to secure a civil engineering position with a national firm that concentrates on retail development. Ideally, I would like to work for a young company, such as this one, so I can get in on the ground floor and take advantage of all the opportunities a growing firm has to offer."

"What are your weaknesses?"
The key to answering this age-old question is not to respond literally. Your future employer most likely won't care if your weak spot is that you can't cook, nor do they want to hear the generic responses, like you're "too detail oriented" or "work too hard." Respond to this query by identifying areas in your work where you can improve and figure out how they can be assets to a future employer. If you didn't have the opportunity to develop certain skills at your previous job, explain how eager you are to gain that skill in a new position.
Suggested answer: "In my last position, I wasn't able to develop my public-speaking skills. I'd really like to be able to work in a place that will help me get better at giving presentations and talking in front of others."

"Why were you laid off?"
This question will become more common as the economy continues to slow down. It's a tough question, however, especially because many workers aren't told exactly why they were laid off. The best way to tackle this question is to answer as honestly as possible.
Suggested answer: "As I'm sure you're aware, the economy is tough right now and my company felt the effects of it. I was part of a large staff reduction and that's really all I know. I am confident, however, that it had nothing to do with my job performance, as exemplified by my accomplishments. For example..."

"Tell me about the worst boss you ever had."
Never, ever talk badly about your past bosses. A potential boss will anticipate that you'll talk about him or her in the same manner somewhere down the line.
Suggested answer: "While none of my past bosses were awful, there are some who taught me more than others did. I've definitely learned what types of management styles I work with the best."

Now---go get em!