Interview Tips:

The first interview is your only opportunity for a second interview, so take it seriously. Here are some tips to help you ace your first meeting and increase your chances for a next one.

Dress for success. Dress conservatively - a navy, black or gray suit is your best choice, regardless of the corporate dress environment once you get the job. Wear minimal jewelry. Make-up should be understated and fingernails should be clean, neat and not brightly polished.

Don't overpower the senses. Interviews generally take place within closed quarters so wear light perfume or cologne. Watch what you eat before the interview and keep a breath mint on hand. Never chew gum during an interview.

Get a good night's sleep and plan your interview for the time of day when you are at your best. Avoid planning an interview before work or during lunch if you cannot be flexible with your time. Allow more time for the interview than you think you need to avoid feeling rushed.

Be conscious of your nonverbal behavior. Look the interviewer in the eye. Remain professional in posture and demeanor. Sit up straight and control nervous habits, like fidgeting or nail-biting.

Speak clearly and enthusiastically about your skills, knowledge, and abilities. Remain professional. Answer the question that is put before you, but don't reveal more information than necessary.

Be pleasant, but not overly friendly. You are interviewing for a job, not a new best friend, so remain professional.

Listen carefully. Don't interrupt the speaker, ask for permission to take notes, and don't let long pauses make you feel uncomfortable.

Remain positive. Never present a negative experience with a past employer. Be prepared for questions that can make you look bad like "Tell me about a weakness." Review typical interview questions until you are confident with your responses.

Do your homework. Learn about the company on the Internet. Ask your CORESTAFF recruiter pertinent questions about the interviewer and the environment. Brush up on the industry by reviewing industry association Web sites or industry publications.

Arrive early for your interview and make sure you understand the directions to the location. If you're not familiar with the area, it doesn't hurt to find the location a few days before the interview.

Brush up on your etiquette, particularly if lunch or dinner is part of the interview.

Write a thank you note immediately after the interview. Be sure to get business cards for proper spelling and addresses.