Once the interview is secured, it is up to you to sell yourself to the prospective employer. As a result of your diligent preparation and rehearsal, you should feel confident and prepared for your interview presentation.

Here are things to keep in mind before and during the interview:

• Your physical appearance is as important, initially, as your interviewing skills and credentials. Dress attractively, but conservatively, even if you tend to be more flamboyant normally. Men should wear well-tailored suits, preferably dark blue or gray; solid neutral shirts, striped or solid-colored ties; dark, well-polished shoes solid black or navy socks. And, don't forget to get a good haircut. Women should wear business suits or tailored dresses with jackets; medium-heeled closed pumps; and have your hair done in a conservative style. Remember, first impressions count.
• Be punctual. Arriving five minutes early is fine, but no earlier. It appears to be putting pressure on the interviewer. If it seems you'll be late, even if only five or ten minutes, be sure to call with an explanation. If it is feasible, make a test run to the interview location before your meeting. Check out the parking facilities, correct entrance to the office, etc. And, if your interview is during rush hour, allow for extra travel time.
• If you complete an application before the interview, remember that expected salary shouldn't be discussed until after an offer is made or is imminent. Leave that section blank.
• When the interviewer greets you offer a smile, a firm handshake (not a knuckle breaker, of course) and look him/her straight in the eye. Making good eye contact establishes your confidence.
• Elaborate. Your resume is the "sales tool" that got you the interview. The interview is your opportunity to expand upon your resume information and sell yourself. Say enough to get your point across without over-answering.
• Don't inquire about benefits (vacation time, benefit plans, bonuses, etc.) during the first interview. You should concentrate your discussion on the position's responsibilities and future growth potential. The interviewer will mention benefits when he/she feels it is appropriate.
• If you're offered the position and it meets with your expectations, accept it! If you're ambivalent, don't refuse the offer outright. Thank the interviewer(s) enthusiastically and ask for some time to consider. This will give you some time to think about it and to discuss some of your concerns with any council you may use.
• If you're not offered the position at the interview, be realistic. Frequently, other people must be consulted before the offer is extended. Or, the hiring official may want to discuss your candidacy with his/her council. Also, other candidates may be scheduled for interviews, and the hiring official may want to complete that process before a decision.

Next month we will discuss some before-interview preparation, during-the-interview refinements and after-the-interview steps you can take to improve your odds. You may contact Professional Search of Atlanta and ask for a copy of their Interviewing Tips and Strategies booklet while supplies last.