Youve handed in your resume and now the wait by the phone begins. Will it ring? Will you finally land your first interview? If you presented a qualified resume and made a great first impression, the chances are fairly good youll at least get called.

So now what do you do? Youre probably a little scared and thats okay. It shows youre taking the interview seriously. After all youre one step closer to getting your first job and on the road to increased independence. Isnt that what its all about? So nail the interview! Here are a few tips to help:
Dont be late! Whatever you do, DO NOT be late. Being late or running in at the last moment gives the impression that youre not serious about getting the job.
Show up at least 15 minutes ahead of time and wait patiently. DO NOT look annoyed if your interviewer is running behind. Youre probably not the only one being brought in for an interview. Remember its not personal.
Dress appropriately. A ripped and dirty T-shirt or a mini-skirt that barely covers the assets is not acceptable. Use common sense.
Do not smoke before the interview or while you are waiting. The smell will linger on your breath and clothes. A definite turn-off, especially if your interviewer is a non-smoker. Dont take a chance.
Do not chew gum during the interview.
Try to look your interviewer in the eye when shes talking or when youre replying to questions. If youre shy or nervous, this is sometimes difficult. Try anyway. It makes a really good impression.
Always be polite and never swear. Being a smart aleck in an interview is never funny.
Be honest. Give honest answers to the questions. Nobody likes a liar and nobody is going to hire someone they feel is being untruthful.
If you have a question about the job or youre not sure exactly what the job involves, ask.
When the interview is over, thank the interviewer for her time. Remember she didnt have to give you the interview. Thank her accordingly.

Its okay to be a little nervous, in fact its better to seem nervous than over-confident. You might be surprised to find out that many times the interviewer is just as nervous as you! Its human nature. Do your best and good luck!

Trish Faber
www.trishfaber-creativewriter.com