of the fittest. Afraid you're going to blow it? Relax. Here are some fail-safe tactics

that'll shoot you to the top of anybody's short list. You will need A professional-looking

outfit A briefcase or portfolio An up-to-date resume and a positive attitude. Step 1. Do

your research. Pour over the company's website, search for relevant news items about it and

its major competitors, and catch up on the latest developments in your field. Look for

connections between the company's needs and your skills. Be prepared to discuss how your

accomplishments complement the company's goals. Step 2. Arrive a few minutes early. At the

very least, be right on time. Never arrive late for a job interview—that's just lame.

Step 3. Dress the part to give the visual impression that you belong. Not every interview

requires a coat and tie, but you should always look neat and professional. Step 4. Make nice

with any employees you meet while waiting, and always be nice to the receptionist—she's

the eyes and ears of the company. Step 5. Greet your interviewer with a firm, dry handshake.

Don't give just a limp finger grab, don't go overboard and crush their hand, and don't

try anything funny or clever. Step 6. Make sure your resume and list of references are

up to date, and bring extra copies of both. Step 7. Listen as much as you talk. Keep your

answers on point, and don't forget to ask questions as well as answer them. Did you

quit your last job to play poker for a year? If so, be ready to explain why—you will

be asked. Step 8. Put a positive spin on everything. Everyone wants to hire a team player, so resist

the urge to complain about another job or badmouth a former employer. Step 9. Don't

exaggerate your skills or your knowledge. Be straight about what you do and don't know,

and offer to learn more if you get the job. Let your personality show, but save the theatrics

for when you're hanging out with your friends. Step 10. Smile, nod, and maintain eye contact.

The proper body language conveys interest and engagement. NO SLOUCHING! Step 11. Before

you leave, ask about the next step in the process and the overall timeline for filling

the position. Step 12. Don't forget to thank everyone on the way out. When you get home,

mail a handwritten note to each person you spoke with. Did you know Interviewers at Microsoft

often asked job applicants why manhole covers are round, just to test how well they thought

on their feet.