Successful interviewing will be essential in order for you to lock in an offer. Here are some interview tips and strategies for an effective interview from preparation through follow up.

Company Research should always be your first step. Gathering background information on employers is a crucial element in successful interview preparation. You will need to be prepared to answer the questions "What do your know about our company?" and "Why do you want to work here?" Knowing as much as possible about the company's past performance and future plans can make your interview more interactive and could be just the leg up you need in a competitive job market.

Practice makes perfect or at least leads to improvement. Practice with a friend and record or videotape your responses so you can replay the interview and see how well you did. Prepare answers to commonly asked interview questions. Doing so will help you analyze your background and qualifications for the position.

Behavior based interviewing is becoming more common. It is based on the premise that a candidates past performance is the best predictor of future performance. Rather than the typical interview questions on your background and experience, you will need to be prepared to provide detailed responses including specific examples of your work experiences.

The best way to prepare is to think of examples where you have successfully used the skills you've acquired. Take the time to compile a list of responses to both types of questions and to itemize your skills, values, and interests as well as your strengths and weaknesses. Emphasize what you can do to benefit the company rather than just what you are interested in. Also prepare a list of questions you want to ask the interviewer. Remember, you aren't simply trying to get the job - you are also interviewing the employer to assess whether this company and the position are a good fit for you.

Memorize your resume. Imagine the embarrassment if your interviewer asks you to elaborate on the summer you spent pearl diving off the coast of Tanzania, and you can't even remember where Tanzania is. For every item on your resume, try to have a paragraph's worth of information, in addition to what is already listed. It is even better to think of a way in which each item illustrates one of your particular strengths or weaknesses. If you're too nervous to remember everything, it's all right to hold a copy of your resume in your hand to jog your memory. But don't forget to continue making eye contact with your interviewer.

Prepare for the interview. It is very important to be on time for the interview. On time means ten to fifteen minutes early. If need be, take some time to drive to the office ahead of time so you know exactly where you are going. Know the interviewer's name and use it during the interview. If you are not sure of the name, call and ask prior to the interview. Remember to bring an extra copy of your resume and a list of references.

Dress appropriately. This one may seem basic, but it's easier said than done. Before you start your rounds of interviews, be sure to have a comfortable, clean, fairly conservative outfit. Don't neglect such crucial details as dark socks for guys or stockings without rips for women. Invest in a nice folder or portfolio in which to stash your resumes - otherwise you'll end up hurriedly smoothing them out after extracting them from the bottom of your backpack.

During the interview try to remain as calm as possible. Ask for clarification if you're not sure what's been asked and remember that it is perfectly acceptable to take a moment or two to frame your responses so you can be sure too fully answer the question.

End the interview with a thank you to the interviewer and reiterate your interest in the position. Then follow-up with a personal thank you letter, the day after the interview took place restating your interest.

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