One of the most important facets of an interview is the initial impression you create. The job interview begins the moment you arrive at the company and are viewed by a discerning manager. Within a fleeting moment, a judgment call has been made about the kind of person you are and whether or not you will be a good fit. The adage "You never get a second chance to make a first impression" is quite appropriate for this scenario.

The initial job interview is a strategic conversation with a purpose. Your goal is to persuade the employer that you have the requisite skills, background and ability to perform the job, and that you can comfortably fit into their organization. With some helpful tips, you can strongly influence the interview outcome. Some of these tips include:

Your appearance: Endeavor to project a well-groomed, professional look. An interviewer is immediately influenced (positively or negatively) by apparel, grooming and the way you carry yourself.

A firm handshake and eye contact: You can't sell yourself if you can't look someone in the eye. Lack of eye contact also detracts from developing chemistry with the interviewer. A firm handshake is a reassuring attribute reflecting self-confidence.

Communication skills: If you're not articulate, persuasive and concise, you will fall victim after a few direct and pointed questions from the interviewer. Practice sessions will pay dividends. - Walking into an interview "cold": Research the company. "What do you know about us?" is a staple question to expect. Be prepared.

Arrive on time: Punctuality is an excellent litmus test for being reliable on the job.

An unsuitable match: Your skills and experience must be consistent with your resume. A perceptive interviewer will detect a disparity within minutes.

Negative remarks: Negative comments are viral in nature and not consistent with a team player.

Avoid discussing salary: Avoid any such questions on the initial interview unless pressed by the interviewer. Myriad factors will ultimately dictate salary, including job requirements, career potential and the overall compensation package (including benefits).

Ask thoughtful questions: An interview is not a one-way street. Ask questions (in moderation) that are thoughtful, perceptive and penetrating.Send a thank-you note: It allows you to highlight several notable points from the interview and underpins how interested you are in the position.

Manage the interview

All of this advice comes down to three important things to remember when you're interviewing: Be prepared, professional and polite. This is your best way to make the right first impression. You are marketing yourself, so don't try to be someone you're not. Remember that, in addition to your expertise and skills, your personality is another vital factor that differentiates you from other candidates. Use it to your full benefit!

Lenny Keitel is a former Director of Professional Services and Information Technology with Fujitsu. Lenny runs Hudson Valley Resumes ( http://www.hudsonvalleyresumes.com ) in Monroe, NY, a premier resume writing and consultancy service with a penchant for crafting impressive resumes that inspire and motivate the hiring manager through its inspirational content, clarity, and visual appeal.