Dear esteemed partners in progress,

Getting hired can be one of the hardest things many of us ever have to do. It can seem like a beauty pageant, a foot race, and a final exam all in one and the prize is a job you will hopefully keep for the next twenty years or more. Beating out the competition for that position is what the job interview is all about and you can win with a few tips that will set you apart from the average interviewee.

1) Rehearse an interview with a friend or relative so you will be relaxed and feeling confident when you actually do an interview with an HR person.

2) Research the business so you know exactly what they do and what they may expect of you as an employee. Let the interviewer know you care about their organization and you want to be a part of it by having some knowledge regarding what their function is and what will be expected of you, their new employee.

3) Dress appropriately. Even if the job you're applying for is blue collar you should wear "office attire" to make a good impression at an interview. Wear something simple and clean.

4) Be there early for that interview by at least ten or fifteen minutes. If you are late for the job interview they will think this shows you have no respect for them or the position you are applying for.

5) Be cool and confident even if you aren't. Look him or her directly in the eye and don't fidget with your hands. Relax and you will appear confident even if you aren't. They expect a certain amount of nervousness but being shaky or looking down as you talk will only make you appear evasive or just plain dumb.

6) Talk with the interviewer but don't hog the conversation. Making small talk initially will set the mood but then let the interviewer lead and you follow by answering questions in a confident tone of voice. Never "bad mouth" a previous employer.

7) Don't wear lots perfume; they don't want to smell your presence in their office the rest of the day. And keep jewelry to a minimum, this is a job interview not a night on the town.

Cool Never chew gum at a job interview. But do make sure your breath is fresh, your teeth are brushed, and your smile is genuine.

9) Be positive, enthusiastic, and ready to meet new challenges that come with a new job. A positive attitude will show right through you.

In conclusion, treat your job interview as if it is a job in itself, and the compensation is long term employment. You are now a sales person and what you are selling is yourself! These interview tips should see you sailing through your interview. Well then, best of luck!