Interviewing with a prospective employer is the most stressful and problematic part of landing a new job. You only have one chance to make a first impression and sell the interviewer on why you are perfect for the job. It is surprising how many highly qualified individuals are denied employment because of a poor interview. In this article we will discuss ten tips to sharpen your interview skills and prepare you for that next job opportunity.

Tip #1: Dress appropriately - Your attire is a number one priority and thus the first tip on our list. In most cases this means wearing slacks with a long sleeve button-up shirt and tie. A general rule of thumb is to dress one step better than you would if you were working the job in question for the day. Also comb your hair and avoid excessive jewelry. Remember, this may be the only chance you get to leave an impression and you want it to be a good one.

Tip #2: Greet the interviewer by name and with a firm handshake - Go into the interview knowing who you are meeting with and what their position in the company is. Introduce yourself with a firm handshake and let the interviewer know you appreciate the opportunity. Greeting a potential employer is the beginning of your first impression so make it good and memorable.

Tip #3: Make eye contact - Eye contact shows confidence in yourself and your abilities. Don't stare down the interviewer but don't avoid their eyes either. If you are confident in your approach and make eye contact throughout the interview, it will be remembered and your chances of a job offer increase.

Tip #4: Attitude is everything - Smile frequently and be positive. It is important to relax but also stay enthused and show the interviewer a friendly yet hard-working attitude. Along with your ability to do the job, much of the hiring decision is based on how well an employer likes you and your personality. An employer is more likely to hire a positive and upbeat individual than someone who lacks enthusiasm.

Tip #5: Be prepared to answer questions - Study before the interview. Brush up on skills and information related to the job you will interview for. You should be able to answer any job related question that may come up as well as a few trick questions the interviewer may throw at you. Be prepared to discuss previous employment and how the skills learned would help you excel at the new position.

Tip #6: Do not elaborate on your personal life - The interview should focus on your skills and abilities, not who you're dating or what music you listen to. Interviewers may ask a couple personal questions to feel out your personality. This is fine and those questions can be answered but keep the interview on topic.

Tip #7: Keep your answers short and on topic - Nothing kills an interview like rambling about something not related to the job. Answers should be short yet descriptive and on topic. Make sure to answer questions fully and avoid one-word answers.

Tip #8: Do not speak negatively about previous employers - This is a major interviewing No-No. Besides tainting the interview in a negative light, employers frown on potential employees who had problems with their previous employment. If asked about a previous employer you had a bad experience with, focus on a positive aspect of the situation.

Tip #9: Make sure the job is for you - It is not worth landing a job if you don't like it or can't do it. Ask specific questions regarding the position's duties and responsibilities. This also shows the employer your interest to work hard and complete necessary tasks.

Tip #10: Confirm a follow-up - This is perhaps the most overlooked item when interviewing. At the end of the interview, make sure to know where you stand with the position. Express thanks for the consideration and ask questions like "When can I expect to hear from you?" or "Can I follow-up with you next week?". This confirms your interest and sets a deadline for a decision. If a job is offered on the spot, make sure to consider it carefully before accepting.

With these tips you should be better prepared to face that next interview with the attitude and confidence it takes to land a new job.