We are sorry to report that there is no one magic formula for a successful job interview, however, below are key items for you to keep in mind as you meet with prospective employers:

First Impressions... You only get one chance to make a good first impression. Dress appropriately. Know what is suitable for the work environment and dress slightly better, generally: for men a dark suit with a conservative tie for women proper business attire - a conservative suit or dress. Neatness, grooming, and a professional look are the keys to success. Be friendly, warm, and enthusiastic. Be self-confident. Remember that not all communication is written or verbal and be aware of: eye contact, vocal quality, body posture, your handshake, and facial expressions. Competence - Will you make the grade? Your interviewer is looking for how well you will be able to do the job. Your resume has already indicated that your capabilities are a possible match. During the interview you must fill in the gaps that resumes by nature cannot cover, relating stories about your skills and past experiences and relating them to the job you are applying for. Your Search Consultants representative will review all the job and company information pertaining to the job opportunity. You will receive the "keys to the job" or what it is you have that the employer is looking for so you will be able to emphasize those things in your background. You will go over responsibilities of the job and match them with similar responsibilities from their current or past jobs. Below is a chart to assist you: Responsibilities of New Job Similar Responsibilities of Current or Past             Likeability - or "will you fit into the organization's culture" question This is not often talked about as part of the decision making process, but it is no less important. As you are introduced to the various people in the organization, remember: Be genuinely interested in every person you meet, from the secretary to "the boss." Be a good listener. Be at ease with people as much as you possibly can. Be relaxed and flexible. Do not be manipulative or try to excessively impress others. Avoid negative talk. Establish rapport with all the people you meet. People hire the people they like, so warm up to the people and establish a good chemistry between you and them. This is especially critical with the person you will be working directly for. Attitude Attitude is one of the most important things an interviewer relys on. The more motivated worker will do the best job. Show your motivation and great attitude by: Show your enthusiasm. Let them see your energy. Relate your previous experience to the job you're seeking. Talk about your goals and where you want to go in the future. Talk about what you like about the company, their goals, their operation, their services or products. Leadership - do you show initiative or do you just follow? Leadership is more than directing a group, it entails taking responsibility for the actions of the group under your command. Many things go into leadership: from organizational skills to motivational skills. Show your leadership skills by: Discuss your previous leadership successes, going over projects at work, or in social or community service settings. Talk about responsibilities you have taken and how you directed or assisted the outcome. Communication Skills - Can you talk the talk? Good communication skills are required for any job, especially those that command responsibility. The following will help you prepare to shine in this area: Take the time to perfect your resume. It should be well written, with no errors in spelling, layout or grammar. If the job you're seeking produces frequent written materials, you may wish to show samples of your previous work. Check with your Search Consultants International representative about this issue, they will advise you. Speak well, pronouncing words correctly. Don't talk too much, just enough to answer the question and get your point across. Poise - or How to remain Cool under Pressure... You are literally on the "hot seat" when you enter an interview situation. The way you answer the hard and stressful questions in an interview can show how you handle stressful situations. Keeping your cool, being calm and answering after careful consideration will show you're reasonable and likely to do well in stressful situations.