How to Ace a Job Interview

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• Adapted from the site How to Nail an Interview http://www.howtonailaninterview.com/, created by marketing pro Steinar Skipsness; the videos there must be seen to be believed.
• 1. Bend Your Resume Toward the Job

  You have a limited time to make an impression, so rework your resume for each job you pursue. Emphasize what's relevant.

• 2. Be on Time

  Skipsness: "Blaming it on traffic or anything else doesn't matter (even if it's true)."

• 3. Turn Off Your Phone

  Then check it again to make sure it's really off.

• 4. Do Some Homework

  Know the company's function, philosophy, and plan. Don't say you want to work there because of the location, as did one worker Skipsness cites.

• 5. Bring Extra Resumes

  "It shows you're prepared and serious about getting the job."

• 6. Bring a Notepad

  "It's a very subtle thing that makes you stand out. Take notes when appropriate."

• 7. Dress Appropriately

  Put on clean, conservative clothes after showering. Skip the cologne.

• 8. Mind Your Social Media

  Set your profiles to private, or at least be discreet about what you put on Facebook and other sites.

• 9. Don't Clown Around

  "A job interview isn't the place to test your material. Be friendly and outgoing, save the jokes."

• 10. Don't Babble

  Stay on topic when answering questions.

• 11. Don't Trash Your Old Boss

  Badmouthing a boss, no matter how awful, speaks poorly of you.

• 12. Don't Flirt

  Skipsness: "Common sense, but apparently needs to be stated."

• 13. Don't Fidget

  "Rubbing your chin, twirling your hair, or anything else along those lines makes you look like you're lying or lacking confidence."

• 14. Less is More

  Your whole life story, including the details, is not necessary.

• 15. Make Eye Contact

  Don't stare out the window, or look at the floor. Have a conversation.

• 16. List Some Goals

  Don't come off as unambitious and lacking direction.

• 17. List Some Accomplishments

  "Be prepared to talk about something that you're proud of accomplishing, whether professionally or personally (or a failure and what you learned from it)."

• 18. Have Passion

  Discuss the books and blogs you read that are relevant to the job. Show some interest.

• 19. Ask Questions

  "If the interviewer doesn't offer you a chance, ask to ask. It reinforces your strong interest in the job."

• 20. Send a Thank You Note

  A real, hand-written one. "It doesn't need to be long, just make it sincere."