People sometimes aren't aware of their movements and don't realize that the interviewer is taking it all in and processing it.

Answering interview questions can be tough enough to manage. Having your body language well-composed can help you in making sure that you make a good overall impression on the interviewer.

Here are some tips on how to make your body language worth a thousand bucks.

1) Attitude

Going in the interview with a good attitude will put you in the appropriate mind set that will translate in your body movements. It's easy to tell when people in a good mood through their stance, the way they hold their head, and posture. Your positivity will also evoke your confidence.

2) Smile

This one is kind of a given. In fact, you're more than likely to see people over doing it in an interview. Then again, depending on the situation, some might get the impression that they need to remain serious. Even in these instances, you want to show that you're also friendly and approachable.

3) Greeting

A hand shake is the quickest way the interviewer establishes a rapport. A successful handshake can get the connection between you and the interviewer off on the right foot.

4) Voice

Make yourself a known presence. Nerves can often get the best of people and it becomes apparent in their voices. Either they are inaudible or they start to sound like mice. Having control of your voice is important to having clear and effective communication.

5) Eye Contact

This is another thing that nerves can hinder. But it's extremely important to have eye contact in an interview to show that you are attentively listening. Interviewers want to have a conversation with you, not at you. Be responsive by nodding to show that you're engaged in what they're saying to you.

6) Posture

Leaning forward shows that you're interested. When you lean back, you can almost seem to bored.  At the same time, keep a comfortable distance. Sitting up with an attentive posture is good professionalism.

She looks ready to take a nap

7) Eyebrows

A stiff face can reflect a stiff personality. Raising your eyebrows adds a little animation to your demeanor. It's another way to show that you're actively engaged.

8) Arms

Refrain from crossing your arms as it can seems little defensive and resistant. It's not a sign that you're open and relaxed. Keep your posture open and comfortable to maintaint that approachable appeal.

9) Hands

Using your hands while talking is similar to raising your eyebrows. The movement and animation in your body language shows enthusiasm in what's going on. Again, a rigidity is hard to approach.

10) Attire

Your choice in attire for the interview is another example of your body language. It's a visual respresentation of your tastes and the image you want others to perceive. The clothes worn in an interview are usually not what most people would wear in any other circumstance. Nonetheless, people still know the appropriate attier and and will dress according to the occasion. To work in professional setting, you've got to look the part first.

Usually, if the interviewee's questions can extend into a substantial conversation, it increases the chances of getting hired. The longer you two talk, the more the interviewer will remember you and that's exactly what you want.

It's hard to engage in a good conversation with a weak question. Most of the time it's better not to ask questions that aren't worth it as it will seem like you're forcing it. Interviewers can tell when you are and don't appreciate have their time wasted.

Your questions to pertain to what working at the company would be like. The types of questions you ask will show the interviewer whether you are really serious about working there. Questions like these...

1) How would you describe a typical day or week of in this position?

This is a good starting question to get more details for visualizing what working for them would really be like. It shows that you're thinking beyond the summarized job desciption and want to get a deeper understanding of what being in that position would entail.

2) What types of challenges does a person in this position encounter?

Realistic people know that it's not always going to be a walk in the park, especially not in the beginning. By getting an early sense of what's to come, you give yourself an advantage. The interviewer will see that you expect to face challenges and are willing to take them on.

3) How do you measure success for this postion?

This questions lets the interviewer know that you want to do well in this position. Asking what your expectations are shows that you're thinking ahead and that you intend to be a good hiring choice. Interviewers like this because it shows initiative and careful thought.

4) What is your managing style like?

Managers want to hire an employee who will be compatible with the company just as much as you want to work under a manager you won't clash with. This question clarifies each person's work style and personalities so that you both can get an idea of what working together may be like.

5) Is there anything else about me you might be unsure of and want to ask?

Allowing the interviewer a chance to be honest about any reservations he or she might have and you have a chance to address them. This eliminates any chance of walking out of the interview with doubts about your impression. Opening up communication like this lets you and the interviewerw feel comfortable around one another making it easier for him or her to consider you for hiring.

6) How would you describe the work culture here?

You want to know who thrives and who doesn't. Learning about the types of people who succeed in the company gives you and the interviewer a better judgment of whether you will be able to, too. Each company operates in its own particular way, learning how your work style will fit into that is crucial to you and the rest of the employees.

7) When you think about the person who did best in this position, how did you see this in his or her performance?

Any hiring manager can appreciate when a candidate shows that they want to not only meet expectation but exceed them as well. Learning about what the best person was able to do shows that them you want to be better.

8) What is the time frame that you get back to candidates for the next steps?

You always want to end the interview with this question. It shows that this interview is important to you and that you sincerely care whether you hear back. Plus, if you don't, at least you won't be left hanging.

1) Time
As soon as an interview is notified of your arrival, they're going to be looking at the time you came in. If you're at all late, by one minute or ten, you've just earned your first strike. Arrive too early and you put the interviewer in an awkward position. If they're in the middle of something, they may feel rushed to greet you.

Stick to getting there no earlier than five to ten minutes as it bests shows punctuality and good time management. If you're unfamiliar with the area of the interview location, make a visit beforehand so you know the best route and the amount of time it takes to get there.

2) Appearance
When taking into account whether you  presented yourself appropriately they're looking beyond clothing. They'll be checking to see if you're well-groomed and clean. Make sure that what you wear is right for the company, some places won't require you to wear a business suit.

If you're still scratching your head, ask the person who set up the interview with you or even the receptionist what the proper attire is. Also keep in mind things like nail polish color, accessories, and body jewelry. Think about what you would  expect someone at that company to be wearing and try to emulate that.

3) Body Language
You may not be saying anything but your body could be giving you away. Being aware of your mannerisms is very important. Hiring managers are good at picking up on the unsaid. If you're fidgety, slouching ,or being too stiff, you could be coming off as uncomfortable and not a good fit for the company.

Professionals who have to sit through regular meetings wouldn't be caught tapping their feet or swiveling around in their chairs. Doing that in your interview won't do you any good either. Quick tip in Listening 101: Make sure to have eye contact, just remember to unlock your gaze every now and then so as not to be too intense.

4) Speech
Your ability to communicate well is a huge deal to interviewers. They want to bring people aboard who they can bounce ideas off of and work on projects with. Teamwork relies on good communication. Mumbling, using slang, or saying "um" after every word is hard enough to listen to let along try to work along side of.

Take your time with your answers and make sure that you're clear, audible, and making sense. Get a feel for the interviewer's communication style--mellow, energetic, etc.-- and get as close to it as possible to make it easier for them to understand you.

5) Preparation
A huge mistake is to forget to bring something that was required of you. Bringing a copy of your resume is a common request from hiring managers but you should do this anyway along with any other work-related documents. Things like a portfolio, cover letter, pen and notepad are good things to bring with you.

Sort of like being prepared with the necessary materials for class, you want to bring anything with a slight chance you may need it. If you've done your homework on the company then it will reflect in your preparedness. Most companies will expect you to know some of their background and history.

6) Qualifications
Nothing can make up for the lack of qualifications for a position. Resumes and cover letters are just introductions, like the impression before the first impresion. The interview is your chance to prove yourself.

Stay focused on tying together your past experiences and accomplishments with the new positions. You want the interviewer to feel like you were born for this job and it's up to you to convince them of that.

There are some interviewers out there who might ask trick-like questions just to test you such as, "If you could chose to be animal, which would it be?" Doesn't sound so scary but it can be in an interview when you least expect it. Remember, in interviews there is no "wrong" or "right" answer, but there is a "best" answer which is easiest to think of with a cool head.

So before you start slathering your underarms with deodorant on your way to your next interview, check out some of these tips to ease your nerves and keep your sweat glands at bay.

1) RELAAAX.
This is the easiest one. Take a metaphorical chill pill by doing a few simple exercises. First, moderate your breathing. If you keep your breathing at slow, steady pace it will keep your heart from beating out of your chest which adds intensity to your nervousness. If even ceasing to breathe completely doesn't lower your heart rate try to put the interview out of mind until you actually enter the meeting. Over-thinking it prior to arrival is part of the cause of your nerves. Instead of thinking about it like you're heading to defend yourself in trial, imagine you're going on a first date or meeting up with a new room mate--something that's new and exciting, not scary. The more casual you feel going into it, the better your mind can focus on the interview rather than keeping your composure.

This guy, nervous?! Not a chance!

2) AVOID SILENCE.
There's nothing more awkward than an awkward silence and in an interview the feeling is mutual. Don't sit there in silence after being asked a question and then blurt out an answer. And whatever you do don't fill the silence with a drawn-out "ummm...." Talk out your thinking and let the interviewer see your thought process. This can also give them a chance to help walk you through it if you're struggling. Show thoroughness in your thinking and it will make a good impression.

3) HONESTY = BEST POLICY.
It's true. Interviewers have heard it all so don't assume that you'll be able to get anything past them. If you don't know something, don't pretend to. Liars, cheaters, fakers...they all go into the same undesirable category for a new hire candidate. Unless the job description demands that you know everything, then simply answer as best you can with what you do know. If you're simply stumped just say so, that doesn't necessarily mean you're disqualified. The interviewer will still appreciate your honesty and that counts for something. In many cases, it's a rare trait.

If you thought your last interview was nerve wracking, then wait until you have to deal with one of these. Maybe you already have and completely shut down during it. Interviews processes vary from company to company so no one can really know everything there is to know about interviews,  not even the interviewer. But you should be doing enough research into them to be prepared for whatever comes your way.

An interview is a face-to-face opportunity to not only get to know you better but to also test you under the spotlight. Some places might want to make you more comfortable to get to know you without all the nerves, while others will attempt to catch you off guard.

The general attitude, however, is beginning to change among employers. It's no longer just about being qualified or capable anymore. Employers want people on their team that will be a good fit and the screening process is going to be checking for that. These are some ways that companies are changing up their interview process to find their glass slipper candidate.

Interviews in Public Areas
An interviewer might take you outside of the corporate elements to conduct the interview or have you meet him or her at a public place. Taking the interview out of the normal office environment lets them get to see you in a more natural setting. They want to see what you're like around other people and use that to gauge how you'll act around people at the company.

Companies will already have an establised culture so they want to be able to determine whether it will be an easy transition for you. This can be more expected if you're looking for a position that involves working in outside sales, B2B networking or in a field position.

Interviews via Skype
Companies haven't completely abandoned doing phone interviews but Skype allows them to go one step further and put a face to the voice. You should be prepared whether you're anticipating this type of interview or not. You might even find it easier to handle since they can't exactly read your entire body language and you might have set up cue cards on the side.

While these cheat sheets might help you this round, you won't always have them handy so don't be so keen to looking for shortcuts every step of the way. Remember that Skype can have its disadvantages like technical difficulties and or slow internet connections.

Interviewing in Groups
Being a part of a group dynamic can be difficult to do if in the end you're only concerned with your individual results. A lot of people may  not have liked being assigned to group projects in school because they didn't want their grade to be negatively effeced by someone else's doing . However, we don't live in a world where collaboration doesnt exist therefore we must learn to do so even when the goal is to beat out the others.

This is the true test to seeing how you react to pressure and how well you manage it around complete strangers. Will you step up to the plate or let the guy next to you outshine you? Sometimes you'll be the only candidate interviewed by a panel of hiring managers. That is equally stressful  but both will bring to light whether you're the right person for the job and their company.

Interviewing/Role Playing
Customer service jobs or any other position that will require you to work one-on-one with people will want you to be able to demonstrate that in the interview process. Role playing will show the hiring manager what you would be like faced with a typical work situation. This isn't a new way of doing things, but it's certainly becoming more prominent.

Employers want to see what you'd be like in action, and what they can expect from you in a similar real-life scenario. They might ask you to sell them something, solve a dispute or find a quick and creative solution to a business problem. You're ability to be quick on your feet and come to a resolution will make it clear for the interviewer what kind of a thinker you are and your level of people skills.


Times are changing and to keep up with these changes, interviewers and employers are mixing up their traditional ways of hiring people to using all the resources out there to better evaluate candidates. Don't be left in the dark ages with outdated job hunting techniques, stay current by refining your interviewing practices and continually learning about what is becoming more commonplace among employers.

You might be the one in the interviewee's seat but the interviewer isn't the only person who should be asking questions. You're expected to have some input, too, and it shouldn't be a matter of how much you'll be making. 

If you think about what's most important about working at any company is really about what you role is or what your opportunities are advancement? Yes, that may be part of it but it isn't the root of it.

The question that you aren't asking, and neither are many others, but should be is whether their workers are happy. Many people don't take that into consideration because they don't find it relevant but there couldn't be a more relevant question.

You might think that work isn't about being happy, it's about getting a paycheck. But how long--and how well--will you be able to do that job if you're sacrificing your happiness on a daily basis?

Obviously, the interviewer is representing the company and is obligated to do so as positively as possible so he or she is more than likely to sugar coat some things. Granted, an honest question still deserves an honest answer. No matter what they tell you, it's all about what comes off as believable.

The company could be a great one, but if you'll be working under someone who's miserable it could all cancel out. By asking interviewers whether they are happy at their job can tell you a lot about what working there will truly be like. Even if it might not be clear in their answers, pay attention to their body language as well.

If they have to think about their response and an immediate smile doesn't follow--well, you can make a pretty good guess there. You can't expect someone to openly admit that they aren't happy at their job, especially an interviewer, but the truth will in some form or another come out. If you can tell that someone is truly happy at his or her work, then that's a good sign that you'll be happy there too.

Everyone puts on a professiaonl persona in an interview to be as impressive as possible. At the same time, you want to show the interviewer a side of you that shows your personality. Nevertheless, no matter how comfortable you feel in an interview you should never lessen your sense of formality and slip up with things that you wouldn't say to someone you just met--especially if they are deciding on whether you get a job.

Don't learn the hard way of making these mistakes:

1) "I love that top!"
Flattery gets you nowhere. The interviewer knows and expects you to try to get on his good side so don't ruin it by overdoing it. They're pros and picking out who's genuine and who's trying too hard. You lose some of your professional credit as well by crossing that boundary. Maintain a comfortable distance; remember they're not your friend but a business opportunity. This can also be taken the wrong from a man complimenting a woman as it might be taken as sexist or derogatory regardless of how pure the intention. Most of all you'll seem like you're sucking up rather than being genuine. If you really want to go the extra mile in complementing then do a little research into their professional achievements rather than something superficial as their attire.

Say: "I enjoyed the piece about your corporate acheivements in the paper."

2) "I've never experienced anything as challenging and it still gets to me sometimes."
Pointing out your weaknesses that you haven't learned from or haven't made you stronger is almost like interview suicide. You don't want and interview to think of you as unstable or easily broken. Employers want to recruit people who are resilient under high-pressure situations. Crying or breaking down shows them that you're an emotional ticking time bomb. Being human is understandable, but keeping composure is crucial in a professional setting. Avoid telling emotional stories and moving stories worth sharing should be practiced so as not to get choked up.

Say: "That was tough to get through, but we did it."

3) "Just getting around is a challenge with my knee."
Sounds a little like you're seeking sympathy, wouldn't you agree? Again, it's another focus on a weakness. You don't want to give the interviewer the impression that you're faced with tons of debilitating factors. If it's something relevant like a gap in your resume due to a serious injury or illness but don't just complain about being sick. Something that otherwise would go unnoticed unless you brought it up, leave it that way. Why go out of your way to mention something that the interviewer probably doesn't need to know? Plus, you're putting them in an awkward position to offer you consolation or commiseration and another breach of professional boundaries.

Say: "I took some time off to recuperate from surgery and have been back to normal since."

4) "I'm so glad to be gone from my previous job; my boss was such a pain."
Complaining about your last employer is definitely an interview taboo. Bad mouthing says little about your character a lot about your bad attitude. Unless your problems played a valuable role in perseverance or overcoming challenges it's best to leave them in that past where they belong. Hanging on to them reveals both immaturity and lack of growth. The interviewer wants to hear positive things about you; your abilities to solve problems and work through obstacles. If you merely complain about them without offering how you reached a solution you're not making yourself look like a promising candidate. Make sure to highlight how you worked with your team in defeating these problems and turned a negative into a positive. Be inspiring!

Say: "I've had a lot of obstacles come my way but I've been able to successfully work through them."

5) "Oh you have kids? I love kids!"
Don't force rapport with the interviewer by pointing out something personal out and trying to relate. Keep your focus on why you're there and what your goal is. You're there to sell yourself as an investment they should make, that you're a good addition to their company. But if you're too busy trying to force a connection with them, they're going to see the show you're putting on. Get to the point and bring up things that interviewer will find interesting rather than finding a talking point to get them to like you. If pauses in the conversation are just too unbearable for you then it's perfectly fine to stick to small talk. Your words can't be taken back so sometimes saying too much in an interview can be worse than not saying enough.

Say: "This is a great building. How long has your company been here?"

6) "Nope, I'm good thanks. Hope to hear from you!"
When an interviewer asks if you have any questions the answer should always follow with another question. No matter the question, you should always have one. As the interview wraps up think about what you want to know and keep the interview going, not in a way that is stalling, but to keep the interviewer engaged in the conversation. Even though they are the interviewer, they get bored by having to do all the work. Asking questions also shows that you're really interested in the position rather than expecting to be handed a job just for showing up. An impressive question speaks volumes over a good answer because it showed you came prepared and ready to give them 100%. The question you ask also gives them an insight to how you think and allows two-way communication. It turns into an actual conversation as opposed to the interviewer prying answers out of you.

Say: "I've noticed that your company's growth increased exponentially over the last two years. What do you think it was that gave it that boost?"

7) "They fired me at my last job."
While that may have been the case, saying it so matter-of-factly makes it sounds worse and shows that that's how you see it, too. Instead, soften it up and give reasonable support for why you were let go. If you tell the interviewer that your previous employer just decided to can you without providing them with a clarifying explanation, leaving them to wonder will not be in your favor. Remember to keep the tone positive and whatever you do, never resort to lying--that could turn things very ugly and it's not a risk you want to take. Not only will they not hire you, but it could also damage your reputation and prevent other companies from considering you for positions. Be clear in your explanation about your termination from your last job and describe the good things that came
out of it while working there and after leaving.

Say: "My previous position wasn't a good fit but I was able to learn a great deal about my strengths and capabilities during my time there, and I want to use those in my future pursuits."

Q: Why so much emphasis on resumes?

A: The reason people put so much time and effort into putting together a resume is that it's the one aspect of their job search that they have control over. Instead of picking up a phone to call propective employer to request an in-person meeting, people use their resumes to do the talking for them without having to deal with the risk of rejection head on.

The truth is, submitting a resume alone usually isn't enough to get someone hired. The resume is meant to get an interview and once getting an interview your personality makes up for 40 percent of the decision.

Q: What makes a great resume?

A: Simplicity is key. A resume should only be one to two pages max. The average resume gets about 10 seconds of reading time so make sure it's written clearly and concisely enough to be understood in an instant.

• Don't make it too fancy, stick to a traditional layout. Font should be very basic, between 10-12 point size, and black on white paper. Your name and heading can be a different size but try to be consistent with the rest of the document. Try not to overdue bold, italics, and underlining.
• Use a chronlogical order that starts with the most recently held position at the top then work backwards. List your accomplishments in each category in a bulleted list and begin with verbs.
• Don't include personal information that isn't relevant to the job description, if it's that important to mention you can bring it up later on in an interview. Employers don't care too much about it when reading a resume.
• Leave photos out of resumes. They look unprofessional and are unnecessary.

Q: Along with a resume, what really makes a hiring manager want to give you the job?

A: You've probably seen the word everywhere by now: Networking. While online job boards have made it that much easier for you to find open positions at your computer, there's a trade off with that advantage. In today's job market, the effort that would have been used toward contacting an employer about a job, you need to contact everyone else you know. That's how to increase your chances of getting an interview. about 60 percent of people who find jobs have found them through networking. Trying to reach an employer by sending a resume through their website is almost like throwing it away. Without establishing a personal connection with them, you're as good as forgotten.

Think of people you used to work with, friends, family members, neighbors, old classmates--anyone you know. Contact them as well as companies. You never know who will be hiring and you don't want to miss out on an opportunity because you overlooked it. Be thorough in your job search, look high and low; far and wide.

Q: What is the biggest issue in getting a resume noticed?

A: People tend to put way too much thought into who is reading it. Often times the reader has little to do with the job, like a recruiter or someone in Human Resources. They look for the qualities in your resume that prove that you're the right person for the job.

Q: How much help does social networking media offer?

A: Things like LinkedIn, Twitter, or Facebook are actually extremely helpful. Companies use social media to reach their audience and it works both ways. You're able to interact with people within the company on a typically more casual platform as opposed to just sending in a resume along with a bunch of other faceless applicants. Social media profiles show companies and employers a personality behind the paper and is a great way to gain some
attention.

Q: What's the number one thing for jobseekers to remember?

A: No guts, no glory. Don't be shy or robotic. Landing a job means you have to beat out the competition and doing so requires taking initiative and perseverance. Resumes are just a tiny aspect of the job-hunting process.  If getting a job relied solely on a resume it would be impossible for hiring managers to narrow it down to just one person. A good resume is your ticket to making an even better face-to-face impression in an interview and that takes a lot of hard work. But most of all, you have to believe you deserve it and that be able to prove that you really are the best candidate. No one enjoys being rejected, but it doesn't hurt anything but your pride--if you let it. Knowing that you made the effort and took a chance even though you didn't get it is a much better feeling in the end than not trying
and getting the same result.

1) Stating What You Do Best
If what you do best is completely irrelevant to the job, there's no use in mentioning it. You'll only give the reader something to ignore. Simply reciting all your accomplishments without relating them to the job description doesn't give the potential employer anything they can work with. They want to see what you can bring to the table that they can use in their company.


Solution: Only include information and examples that the company is looking for, just carefully go over the job description. If there isn't one, call the company and ask to speak with a secretary. Most will be more than willing to help you and share some tips on what the employer wants from an applicant.


2) Having Just One Resume
Generic resumes get you nowhere. Each and every company, even those within the same industry, are looking for particular things and your resume should address those requirements. But many then wonder, "How am I supposed to write a resume that matches every employer's needs?" Well you don't have to.


Solution: Modify your resume whenever you apply for a position to make it fit the job description. You can create more than one resume if you want to go into more than one field and just change around certin qualifications or accomplishments that will interest the employer most. You always want your resume to be as short and brief as possible. The point is for the reader to get the main points fast and easy.


Another way to approach this to create a master resume with all the information that you can use to cut and paste into the final resume. Templates are always useful in formatting the information in an organized fashion. By showing the potential employer that you're exactly what they're looking for, your phone will be ringing sooner than you think.


3) Walls of Words
Keep paragraphs in essays and out of resumes. Being that you only have so much real estate to work with you want to make every word count without bombarding the page with text. With all the reading recruiters have to do, they're not going to spend any more time on one than another.


Solution: Bullet points are your best friend in resumes. They keep things short and sweet and help you avoid putting in too much fluff. You want to use words that will make an impact, so take time with your resume and make as many drafts as you need.


4) Show Instead of Tell
Pointing out a strenght is one thing but showing how you used it is another. Your resume reflects the judgment calls you have made on yourself. This can also pose a problem to hiring managers as it makes them wonder how much is acutally true or fiction.


Solution: If you really are a good candidate for the job prove it with facts. Someone could easily say that they "generated revenue with creative marketing techniques," but that could mean anything from $1 or $1,000 dollars. Specifics make a huge difference in what the potential employer is able to learn about you. The more detailed you are, the better idea they have.


5) Measuring Your Job Search By Resumes
Of course, the more contacts you make in your job search, the quicker you will find an end to your means. However, simply just submitting a resume doesn't count as making contact. There needs to be more effort behind that. As few as one in every 1,700 resumes sent to companies actually result in a job offer, according to Richard Bolle, authoer or "The Job-Hunter's Survival Guide." In the end, most job seekers become discouraged as resume after resume fails to produce a positive result.


Solution: Evaluate the success of your job search in terms of how many people you actually meet and talk to rather than how many resumes you've sent out. Making contant in person is harder but have substantially higher success rates. You'll keep from feeling hopeless and have a better idea of how much you've actually accomplished.

Before you begin your job search, you will need a resume. There are three common types of resumes. Each one provides a different angle of presenting the information. Decide which one will best fit what you are looking for.

1. Chronological
This is the most popular format for resume. It places your information in reverse chronological order starting from your most recent job. Employers tend to prefer this format as it shows a candidate's steady career growth. This resume focuses on longevity, job growth and achievements

2. Functional
This type of resume focuses on your skills and accomplishments over your job history. This is more ideal for recent college graduates who may not have a long work history yet. This resume focuses on your skills, not when or where you did it. Accomplishments and qualifications are grouped together to emphasize your experience in specialized areas.

3. Combination
This type of resume does exactly what it says: it combines functional and chronological resume together. A combination resume will highlight skills and accomplishment and then proceed to describe education and employment history. This gives your recruiter a quick summary, followed by your detailed history.

Take a look at your resume and evaluate which has more leverage: your experience or your education. Decide which resume best suits how you want to present yourself. If you're not sure, always go with the chronological resume as it is the most commonly used and the one that is more preferred. Remember to keep in mind that your resume is essentially your sales pitch and you want to present it as easy to read and follow.

During your job search, you will come across different type of interview styles. While the most common type of interview is a one-on-one in-person interview, it's good to be aware of the other types so that you can anticipate and prepare for the interview. Sometimes, a company will let you know how the interview will be conducted. If they do not tell you, it will most likely be an in-person interview with one individual. Here are some different types of interviews you may encounter during your job search.

The Phone InterviewA phone interview typically serves as a screening process for recruiters to narrow down candidates to bring in for an in-person interview. Usually, a phone interview can be spontaneous or scheduled. Typically, a phone interview can either occur when a recruiter emails you to schedule an interview, or when a recruiter calls you to set up an in-person interview. Just by speaking with you on the phone for a few minutes, a recruiter can gauge your tone of voice and speaking confidence. To best prep for a phone interview, be sure that you are in a quiet room where there's no background noise to distract you or the other person.

In-Person InterviewThis is the most common type of interview. Here, an interviewer will sit down with you and ask you questions and vice versa. This is a good chance for you and the interviewer to interact in person, have the interviewer learn more about you and you can learn more about the company and the position. By meeting in person, this gives your interviewer a chance to see if you guys can get along and if you are the right fit.

Group InterviewThis type of interview usually involves a group of candidates that are presented to the company at the same time. From the moment you sit down, you will be evaluated on everything from your answers to your body language. Keep in mind your body language when you are there. Any fidgeting or squirming around can be read as insecure or nervous. Note the way you interact with other candidates as the company interviewing you will be watching. This is a good way for companies to see how you interact with your competition. It can give an insight as to how you would interact in a team or with competing team members. Be sure to come across as confident and not aggressive.

Behavioral InterviewThis interview can take place in a number of places. It could be a lunch interview or even just talking a walk with the interview. While it may seem more casual, be sure to stay professional, even in a casual setting. These types of interviews will evaluate you based on your interaction and behavioral skills. This includes anything from the tone of your voice, the way you respond to questions, your body language, etc. Even if the conversation becomes casual, watch what you say and remember that you are still being interviewed. Anything you say and do could make or break your interview. Prepare in the same way that you would any other interview: research the company, prepare a list of questions to ask, dress appropriately, etc.

Remember, no matter what type of interview you are faced with, the general consensus is the same. Dress appropriately, do your research, watch your body language, be confident and practice your interviewing skills.

It's the night before your interview and you're starting to sweat. You're nervous. What if your interviewers don't like you? What if they don't offer you the job? What you have is the case of pre-interview jitters. Here's a comforting thought: everyone else is nervous too. It's very common to be nervous before an interview. Here are some tips to calm your nerves and boost your confidence.

Prepare everything beforehand
Have everything laid out the night before. Pick out your work outfit, have copies of your resume and references printed and put into a portfolio. Print out the location of the office and the address to ensure you won't get lost. Make sure you have the correct time and date for your interview and who you will be interviewing with (if you know this beforehand). By being prepared, you'll feel more at ease.

Practice, review, and practice some more
Do a mock interview with a friend. Rehearse what you're going to say. What points do you want to touch on about your experience and skills? How are you going to say it? Have your friend critique your interview and give you pointers on what you can improve on. By having a good idea of what you're going to say, you will feel more confident during the interview since you won't be scrambling for an answer off the top of your head.

Give yourself a pep talk
Remind yourself that why you are qualified for the job. Don't think about the other candidates that you're against. Focus on why you know you are right for the job. Don't underestimate your own abilities because you're afraid you might not get the job offer. If you act as if you don't deserve the job, the interviewer might see this and agree with you.

Relax!
Don't focus all your thoughts on the interview, it might overwhelm you. After you've practiced and prepared, take a break! Relax and do something that you enjoy. Thinking about your interview all night won't help your jitters so the best thing you can do is focus on something else that will relax you.
If you don't get the job, don't worry, it's not the end of the world. If anything, look at each interview as a good practice. The more interviews you go on, the better you get at selling yourself and giving a good interview. It's not the end of the world if you don't get the job, chances are, there is a better job that's more suited to your needs and interests. Don't forget, practice makes perfect.

Before you go in for an interview, it's good to practice your interviewing skills. This includes the four key parts: first impression, interview content, interview technique and closing statement. Keep in mind these four parts and you can have a successful interview!

First Impression. First impressions are everything. The moment you walk into an office, you are being critiqued by everyone from the receptionist, the other employees and the hiring managers themselves. Every little thing counts. Make sure your outfit is suitable for the company. Be sure to check that your clothes are clean and smooth; no wrinkles in the shirt! Don't have dirt under your nails or keep any tattoos you have hidden. Also, don't forget to check your breath! Have a pack of gum or a box of mints handy. And most importantly, don't forget to smile!

Interview Content. Having a good knowledge of your skills and the company background can give you leverage to having a good interview. Being well knowledge in the company information can show that you took the time to research the company and also provide some questions that you have regarding the position, your potential colleagues and the company itself. Knowing your own skills is one thing; knowing how to sell them in an effective way is another. Be sure to practice how you will explain your skills to your interviewer in a way that can have you coming out sounding more positive than negative.

Interview Technique. How is your interviewing technique? Are you speaking in a clear voice or are you mumbling your words? Are you making good eye contact or are you shifting your eyes around the room? Are you sitting up straight or are you slouched over the chair? Are you smiling or frowning? All of these small and subtle moves can greatly affect the way you communicate your words. One of the best ways to figure out your interviewing technique is to practice with someone else. Have them evaluate the way you carry yourself in an interview. Do you give off a positive or negative vibe? Keep these critiques in mind when you go on the actual interview. A small move can say big things.

Closing. How do you end an interview? Do you leave still showing interest in the job after the interviewer has told you a little more about the position? Did you say everything you wanted to say about yourself? Ask all the questions you wanted to ask? The closing of an interview is the final moments that the interviewer has with you. Leave a lasting impression by summarizing again why you are the best candidate for the job, your continued interest in the company and the position, and with a smile. Having a strong closing is as important as having a strong beginning.

Keep these four things in mind when you walk into an interview. Preparation is key. Do your research before you go in and practice, practice, practice! Remember, the more you practice, the more comfortable you will be at answering questions since you will have an idea of how to formulate the answer beforehand. By preparing for the interview, you will come off more confident and relaxed. You'll want the interviewer to be focused on what you are saying, not by how nervous you are. Be confident and keep practicing to make sure you can give yourself the best possible interview you can have.

Interviews are a two-way street. It's the time where an employer can get to know you better; but it's also a time where you can learn more about the company and decide if it's a good fit you as well. Not sure if the company is right for you? Here are some questions to ask that can give you a better idea about the company and the position you're interested in. By asking questions, it shows that you are interested but it also gives you some more insight into the job.

1. Describe what an ideal employee looks like to you.
By asking this question, you can have an idea of what is expected for this job position. Carefully listen to the description and decide what that will mean for you. For example, is their ideal employee is someone who is collaborative, expect more teamwork over independent projects. If their ideal employee is someone who works long hours, don't expect to leave on time.

2. What's the company culture like here?
By asking this question, you can get a sense of the company culture. Are they a casual environment in an open space? Are they by-the-book and more formal?

3. How is success defined here?
This can give you a better idea of what your employer may be looking for. Hopefully they will give a detailed answer. For example, if you're applying for a sales position, is success based more on the revenue alone or number of clients you get? You can gauge what you would need to work on in order to meet their standard of success.

4. How do you guys go about solving problems?
This question can give you a better idea of the management style at this company. Does management like to get involved when problematic situations come up or do they like to stand back and let you resolve your issues on your own.

5. Where does the company see itself in 5 years? 10 years?
By asking this, you can have a general idea of where the company direction is headed. Do they want to expand globally? This could indicate possibilities of future offices opening in other countries. Do they want to focus more on generating revenue? This could indicate more sales representatives being hired. By asking this question, you can get a better idea of how your particular position could play a role in the direction of the company.

Remember, an interview is an important time for you to really sell yourself to the company, but it's also an important time for you to familiarize yourself with the company you could potentially work for. Not only will this give you a better idea of how your role fits into the company, it also gives you a better idea of where you see yourself and how it can affect your career path. Don't forget to ask questions. This is your one opportunity before you get hired to get all the information you can to make an informative decision.

Sometimes it's a little unfair how an interview can be. Essentially, it's one shot that you have to impress your interviewer and blow the competition out of the water. Any subtle move can make or break your chances of landing the job. Something as small as the way you dress or behave can cost you an opportunity of getting the job. Here are some things to keep in mind so that you can give yourself the biggest advantage during the interview. Here are some mistakes that can cost you the job. 

 

1. Not having good eye contact. 

This shows a lack of confidence in yourself which can lead the interviewer to question you as a good employee as well. If your eyes are shifting around the room, you could give off the signal that you are uninterested or bored. 

 

2. Not dressing appropriately for the interview. 

If you're applying to be a paralegal at a law firm, it's probably not a good idea to show up in a tee shirt, jeans and sandals. If you're not sure what the dress code is, keep in mind that it's always better to be over-dressed than under-dressed. This doesn't just apply to the physical clothes that you wear; this includes any flashy jewelry or accessories that you have. Too much perfume or cologne can also set the interview off. The way you dress it the very first impression your interviewer will get of you so make it a good one.

 

3. Not asking questions. 

By not asking questions, you indicate to the interviewer that you're not all that interested in the company. Any question that you can doesn't have to be directly related to the position. It could be about the company itself or the industry that the company is in. By asking questions, you can engage a stimulating conversation with the interviewer but also gain better insight for yourself into the potential company that you could be working for. 

 

4. Not having a basic understanding of the company. 

While it's important to ask questions, it's also to not ask questions that could hurt you. Don't ask your interview "What does your company do?" If this were 30 years ago, it might have been okay but with today's technology and the unlimited amount of resources that you can gain from the Internet, there is no excuse that you didn't, at the very least, take a quick look at the company's website. Take a look at the company's website and look at their mission statement and any press releases regarding their company. By doing so, you can ask smarter questions that will give you better insight but also show that you did your research. 

 

5. Not keeping it professional. 

It's good to be able to make a connection with your interviewer but remain focused on the purpose of the interview. Your purpose is to show the company why you are the most qualified candidate and for you to get a better idea of what the job entails. Don't go off course and start talking about sports or your love for animals. Also, don't use profanity or anything that can make you come off unprofessional. Remember, you want your interviewer to think that you are competent and capable for the position. 

 

6. Not focusing on job position but focusing on the perks. 

Benefits are important but that's not why the company wants to hire you. You need to convince the interviewer why they want you, not the other way around. Talk of vacation or any other sort of benefits should never come up until after you have been offered the job. 

 

Interviews can be scary but with practice and patience, you can give yourself the best chance of having a great interview. Keep your interviewer focused on your qualifications and don't have anything small such as a wardrobe malfunction distract them from seeing that you're a great candidate for the job. 

 

A cover letter is your opening sales pitch to make a lasting impression with the recruiting manager. That being said, this is your first, and possible only, chance to catch their attention so keep it professional. Keep these tips in mind when writing your cover letter

• Keep everything consistent. Use the same heading for your cover letter that you used for your resume.
• If possible, address the hiring manager's name. Not only does this personalize the letter, it also catches their eye better than if they had read "Dear Sir or Madam"
• Be clear in your cover letter. In your first paragraph, include the position you are interested in and include a specific reason why you feel like the candidate for the position
• In the body of your letter, highlight specific experiences, skills or accomplishments of yours that relates directly to the job position. This data should be brief but informative. Bullet proof your details if you can as this is more eye-catching than a simple body of text.
• Before you end the letter, be proactive and suggest a time for you to meet with the hiring manager or give a time that you will be calling to further discuss your qualifications.
• Keep your overall coverall brief, it shouldn't be longer than half a page.
• Be sure to leave your contact information in your signature, including your contact number and email address in case the hiring manager wants to get in touch with you.

Your resume shows your skills, experience and accomplishments. Your cover letter goes into more details regarding those skills, experience and accomplishment. Your cover letter is a great time to go into more detail regarding a particular skill you have or particular accomplishment you had. In a way, your cover letter serves as your voice to the resume. Writing an effective cover letter can make a lasting impression that could ultimately lead to an interview.

It's been weeks and you've sent out dozens of resume; yet you still haven't gotten a single response. What gives? It could be your resume. Here are some common resume mistakes to avoid when sending out resumes. Remember, the smallest mistake can make the biggest difference. Take a good look at your resume. It might have one of the following, which could be keeping you from getting interviews.
 
1.  It's Too General
A resume is your chance to show off your accomplishments and skills. If you're too general, you might give off the impression that you're just like everyone else. If that's the case, why should an employer hire you over another candidate? While it's good to show the variety of skills that you have, it's also important to highlight your greatest accomplishments. Don't just give a laundry list of your duties; show how you implemented changes that affected your company. Did you recently exceed a revenue goal for the last quarter? Talk about that. Did you oversee a huge project that had big impact on your company's revenue? Talk about that. It's one thing to show what you can do, it's another to show your results of what you can do.

2.  It Looks Messy
Take a quick glance at your resume for 10 seconds. Is it clean and easy to read? If you're not sure, have a friend take a look at your resume. Does your resume make it clear what your experience and skills were or do you have to spend time looking all over your resume? Recruiters are often bombarded with resumes so they have less than one minute to skim through yours. Make it easy to read so that an employer can take a quick look at your resume and have a good idea of what you can bring to the table. You want the employer to focus on your accomplishments and not be distracted by the design of your resume.

3. It hAS Speling and Grammar Mistake EverywherE
Even the tiniest spelling or grammar mistake can have an employer question your entire resume. Avoid these by having a few different people take a look at your resume. Since you've probably been staring at your resume for weeks now, it might be difficult to catch mistakes. By having a pair of fresh eyes take a look, others may be able to catch little details that your eyes might have skipped over. Remember, you have one shot to impress your recruiter so don't have a spelling mistake stand in the way of getting an interview.

4. It Looks a Bit Exaggerated
Sometimes it's hard to remember the details of each job, especially if it's been a few years since you worked there. If you don't remember the exact month you started working at a company, call and ask them. Don't remember what your previous title was? Call your old company and ask. Tiny details such as these can be a sign of a red flag if a company decides to do a background check and some of the information doesn?t match up. Don't risk losing a potential job offer or interview by fudging the details. Make sure that everything on your resume is as accurate and honest as possible.

Resumes are a constant work-in-progress so it's always good to go back and read through it again. Also, keep in mind that your resume should always be tailored to the job position that you're applying for. You want to be as relevant as possible to a job so always make sure that your resume accurately reflects you and the job position. Little tweaks on your resume can make a big difference.