They want to know about you. Job interviews are an exchange of information. You want to know about them. Is it a match? Simple as that. Prepare and focus. Highlight your skills and accomplishments:

• • Who you are
• • Why you can do the job, why this company

When asked such questions as “Tell me about yourself,” or “What are your five year, ten year plans?” stick to your career history goals.

First impressions are crucial.

• • Learn about the company, the job and the department
• • Pay attention to eye contact, body language
• • Smile
• • Listen
• • Sell yourself

Follow up! Follow up! Follow up! Be persistent without being a pest. Be courteous: send a thank you note. Do not discuss salary. Salary negotiation comes when an offer is near.

When asked, “Do you have any questions?“ have several. You will be seen as a thoughtful and proactive candidate. Some good questions include:

• • What do you like about the company?
• • My first assignment.
• • Who’s successful on this job?
• • Why?
• • Management style?
• • Department objectives?