1. RESEARCH THE COMPANY: This is key, because the more you look into a company and business the more you see for yourself if this indeed the job you're looking for. Don't only just look at their website, but if they have a facebook it's important that you read up on what their likers are saying. Is the costumer service reliable? Are they consistent with impressing? More times than not if their costumer or consumers are happy, it's because of the positive environment of the business. Which means that in most cases it because the people already hired are happy working there. The more you look into the job, it'll show you whether or not you want the job, and the more you want the job the better you will prepare yourself for the interview. Simple as that.
2. DRESS TO IMPRESS, BE CLASSY: Please. Stay away from the jeans and the giant logos. Low cut tops, and flip flops. Wear clothes that show off your figure, but in a flattering way. Skin tight clothing is a definite NO-NO, along with short skirts and sleeveless shirts. Heals should be worn, but nothing over 3 inches. You want to be comfortable walking around the business, and to avoid being klutzy as much as possible. Stay with subtle colors. Peaches, blacks, whites. You don't want anything too flashy, because you're trying to sell your personality and talents, not your clothes or body. Make sure your hair is off your face, that way you're not hiding, or playing with it. You do not want to distract your future employer by constantly brushing your hair out of your eyes.
3. HAVE RELIABLE REFERENCES: Call a week or two in advance, let your references know that you're job hunting and that there could be a possibility they could be receiving a phone call from a future employer. References should be past managers or people whom you've worked with, because as much as I'm sure your boss would love to talk to your mom, that may come across as being a little biased. Make sure that you have your phone, or even an index card with your reference information when filling out an application as well.
4. ARRIVE 10-15 MINUTES EARLY: The worst thing you can do is be late for interview. Go drive by, time it to make sure you give your self plenty of lee way for the day of the interview. Being early shows that your eager, and that you're dependable.
5. SMILE!SMILE!SMILE!: I can't stress this enough, smiling is confidence and a good attitude all mixed up into one. When you smile, you're basically saying, "I'm friendly, I get along with people, I'm genuine, I'm happy to be here, I'm excited to have this opportunity." etc. etc. etc.
6. MAKE EYE CONTACT: It's just like smiling, but it also says, "I'm listening, I'm alert, I'm willing to learn, I appreciate you talking to me and taking time out of your day to give me a chance"
7. ASK SMART & RELATED QUESTIONS: One time I had applied to a job, and I didn't ask any questions other than, "So when would you like me to start?" BIG. MISTAKE. HUGE. MISTAKE. I came home from the interview not knowing how many hours I would be working, how much I would be making, and uncertain of the time table for moving up in the company. Make sure you ask those questions so you know exactly what you're getting yourself into.
8. BE CONFIDENT: But also, be yourself. You have to envision yourself already working there, you have to see yourself being an employee. You walk into the interview like you've already got the job, but still being humble and realizing it's up to them if they want you to work there. Confidence however is the ultimate secret weapon to landing a job and nailing your interview.
