Preparing yourself well during an interview requires preparation and thinking through what you want to say during the interview.

Learn about the organization
In almost every interview situation, you'll be asked, "What can you do for this company?" Practice your answer. Research press releases, The Wall Street Journal, annual reports, blogs, websites, the news, and so on. Know the company's philosophies, goals, plans, new products, target customers, new executives, and major directional changes.

Use your network
Do you know anyone who works or has worked for this company or organization? Call or have lunch with them before your interview. Your competition likely won't have done their homework as well as you have. Your prospective employer will notice.

Review the job description
Be prepared to explain how your background qualifies you for the job. Did you find the job posting online? Save a copy and bring it with you to the interview. Some companies take weeks to start calling people in for interviews and by then the job description may have been pulled from wherever you saw it.

Dress to impress
Research indicates many job applicants have unsuccessful interviews because they didn't dress professionally. A suit or jacket, dress slacks, dress shirt, and a tie are fine for men. A suit or blouse, skirt or slacks are fine for women. The rule of thumb is to dress one notch above that group's normal attire. If in doubt, a suit is never inappropriate for men or women. Remember, you're going to a job interview, not a casual event.

Review your resume
Think of examples that describe or illustrate your accomplishments. You will be asked about items on your resume and you need to be able to support them.

Be prepared

• Confirm the date and time of the interview a day or two before.
• Make sure you know how to get there and how long it takes.
• Confirm the spelling of the first and last name of the interviewer(s) so you can thank them later.
• Arrive at least 10-15 minutes before your interview. You may be asked to complete an application or other form when you arrive.
• Bring three copies of your resume in case the interviewer(s) don't have it with them.
• If you have them, bring letters of recommendation, professional certificates, and references in a portfolio binder.

For design, art-related, or writing positions
Bring 5-10 examples of your best work in a portfolio. Don't bring all your work because an interviewer who spends the whole time looking at your portfolio will have less time to connect with you. Including personal work or unpaid projects is fine; just be sure that the content is suitable for the employer in question. If your portfolio is online, email a link in advance so the interviewer can review it beforehand and talk to you about your work during the interview.

Tips

• Turn off your cell phone before you enter the building.
• When answering questions, keep your answers focused on your skills and knowledge.
• Make eye contact but don't stare.
• Avoid one word answers but be succinct and direct; don't ramble.
• Be truthful. Any statements discovered to be untrue are grounds for not hiring you.
• Be sure to send a thank you note after the interview. An email is increasingly acceptable, especially if the employer required you to submit an electronic application or resume.