You just landed an interview for a new job.  We want to help make sure you are ready to make a great impression with the employer as well as give him peace of mind that you are the right candidate for the job.  Here are some pointers for you to ace that interview.

1. Dress for success.  

Most likely you are going to be taking a bench test, so we understand you can’t wear your Sunday best, but you still need to dress professionally.  Slacks and a polo work well. Skip the jeans and think business casual.

2. Be on time.  

This is probably the easiest tip there is and yet it is the one that so many people overlook.  Plan for traffic, delays or anything else that may cause you to be late. Better to be early and kill time preparing in your car in the parking lot than to roll in 15 minutes late.

3. Bring your resume.  

Sure, your employer probably has already seen your resume, but its great to bring a few extra copies just in case he forgot to print it off or didn’t bring it to the interview.  It’s a great way to show that you are prepared and eager for the job.

4. Calm the nerves.  

It’s easier said than done but try to be relaxed and conversational in your interview, yet still professional.  Make eye contact when the interviewer is asking a question and when you are answering. And, be aware of your body language.

5. “Tell me about yourself”.  

So, this is typically the first question in every interview.  It’s great to go ahead and prepare your answer beforehand. Our best advice?  The interviewer is looking for a short 2-3-minute synopsis of who you are and why you are a good candidate.  They don’t need a recap of your life story.

6. It’s not all about you.  

So much of the interview may be about your experience and your skills.  But, it’s also important to include things that showcase how you work with others, whether it be peers, vendors, customers or management.

7. Watch the ego.  

We know you are probably the best jeweler out there.  But, the interviewer has probably heard that from all three of the candidates that he has interviewed.  Instead of stating that you can do anything or that you are the best, stick to examples of work that you have done, skills that you have acquired or ways that you try to continuously improve to help the interviewer understand your skillset.  And remember—most likely you will bench test, so if you state you are skilled in something, be prepared to back it up.

8. Showcase your work.  

Are you looking to get a job in design?  Then bring a portfolio of your best work so that you can showcase your talent.

9. Be honest.  

If asked about conflict in past jobs or parts of your job history that has gaps, be honest, but professional.  Instead of stating that your former employer was hard to deal with, state that it wasn’t a good fit for you because there were conflicting points of view on approach.  It’s best to take the high road and be forthcoming, as it most likely will be checked.

10. Ask questions.  

Once the interview is wrapping up, it’s important that you contribute some questions back.  It shows the interviewer that the job is important to you and helps him understand what is important to you in a job.  Instead of just asking about money, ask questions that help you understand what the expectations will be if you land the job, or what the biggest challenges are in the role.

11. Be courteous.  

When wrapping up the interview, thank the interviewer for the time and shake hands.  

Follow these steps and you will be sure to leave your interviewer with a great impression!

Need some more help?  Here are some links to check out: