You can improve your chances of having a successful interview and landing the job of your dreams by following these guidelines. Each and every day is an interview. Showcase your personal and professional best self.

Be On Time

There is no faster way to lose points with your prospective employer than to show up late. First impressions are lasting impressions. Being late for an interview makes you appear unreliable and is disrespectful. Make it a point to arrive at least fifteen minutes early for an interview. This will allow you to relax, straighten your tie, comb your hair and compose yourself. If you are late, apologize and offer a very brief explanation. If possible, call the company / interviewer from your cell phone if you are going to be late.

Show Genuine Interest Through Your Body Language

Use direct eye contact, nod your head occasionally and smile when appropriate. Your chin should be level exhibiting confidence. Raising your chin above level may be perceived as arrogant. If your chin is lower than the level point you may be perceived as defiant. Pay attention and be involved in the conversation.

Be Well Prepared

Interviewers expect you to know something about the company and the position you are seeking. Having this knowledge makes you appear motivated, interested, responsible and a team player. Excellent sources of information are the Internet, periodicals and people already in the field. Bring extra copies of your resume and references to the interview.

Remember to Use Your Best Manners

Introduce yourself and be prepared to shake hands. Say please, sir, ma'am and thank you. These essential words make a positive and lasting impression. Use a respectful tone of voice. Do not interrupt the interviewer. Maintain eye contact 90% of the time. Avoid slang, filler words such as um, you know, well or uh. Do not slouch or chew gum. Do not put any of your personal items on someone's desk. Displaying good manners gives you a competitive edge.

Dress to Impress

Your goal is to gain employment, not to make a fashion statement. It is a competitive world and you should not dress in any way that will distract attention from you or your qualifications. Avoid unconventional hair colors, excessive jewelry, shiny cosmetics and any clothing that you would wear in the evening or on the weekends. It is always better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed.

Be Composed

Do not fidget, use inappropriate gestures, slouch or use any body language that diminishes your visual integrity.

Be Truthful

Never lie during an interview. If the interviewer catches you in a lie during the interview, your chance of being hired is dismal. If your employer finds out you lied after you have been hired, it may be grounds for dismissal.

Be Articulate and Well Spoken

Good grammar and the proper formation of sentences is a huge competitive edge in an interview. Communication, charisma and people skills open the doors for greater success.

Feature Yourself at Your Professional Best

During the interview, confidently describe your skills and accomplishments. Your resume gives you the opportunity to interview for a job, it is up to you to showcase yourself at your professional best and convince the interviewer that you are the ideal person for the job. 

Send a Thank You Note

Take a few minutes after the interview to jot down your impressions of the interviewer, the company, what you talked about and any interesting points that were discussed. Include this information when you write the thank you note to the interviewer.