The job interview is nothing but going through a series of “first impressions” tests. In this section, we will give you some guidelines of how to conduct yourself during the interview in order to present the best of you on your interviewers. Once you arrive to your interview, there are a few things to bear in mind:

■First Impressions Count

You must do everything possible to make a positive first impression when you meet the interviewers. Above all make sure you remember the names of all of your interviewers, which means paying particular attention to them when you are first introduced, and taking a mental note of their different roles. In the interview context, the handshake is very important. The best advice is to use a firm (but not hand-crushing) handshake, remembering to make eye contact and smile at the same time.

■Communicate Effectively

You should show your capability to communicate effectively by speaking clearly and avoiding “uhs”, “you know”, and slang. Get ready with short (1 or 2 minutes) polished answers to common questions about items on your resume, but don’t give a “rehearsed” interview. It is unwise to launch into 10-minute monologues about your history or skills. Concern with subjects or skills that they seem the most interested in. Learning to be a good listener is also an effective way to clarify the interviewers’ ideas. By listening you’re learning and increasing your chances of succeeding. Ask questions about the position, its challenges and opportunities. In this way, you can not only get more information about the position, but show your great interest in this job. Make sure the next steps are well-defined. “When shall I check back with you?” is a good opener, because it leaves the control with you to call them back, without being pushy.

■Be Polite

It is good practice not to sit down before being asked to and stand when someone enters the room (either gender.) you should adopt a friendly attitude—Believe in yourself, smiling is never out of style. At the end of the interview, you should stand and appreciate the interviewer for his/her time, look him/her in the eye when you shake his/her hands.