8 Simple Rules to Help You Shine in a Job Interview

Dress to Impress! Clichéd maybe, but it is 100 percent accurate. Men should wear slacks, a long sleeve dress shirt, tie, dress shoes and a belt regardless of what job you are applying for. Women should dress professionally as well, avoiding looking too casual or provocative. Showing up to an interview in shorts and flip flops is a sure fire way to be immediately forgotten.

Job Interview Rule 2: Be on time

There is nothing worse for a busy hiring manager than an applicant who doesn't show up for the interview on time. Try to get there early. This shows that you are serious about the job. Keep in mind that you are probably not the only person we have scheduled for that day.

Job Interview Rule 3: Turn Off the Cell Phone

A cell phone going off during an interview signals a lack of respect. If you actually answer that call, somebody had better be dead or dying. I will end an interview on the spot if a person answers their cell phone. If you are expecting an important call, give the interviewer a heads up before you begin. We will understand if your wife is about to deliver a baby...

Job Interview Rule 4: Look them in the Eye

Looking someone in the eye is a show of respect. It also indicates that you are open and honest. Looking away frequently or not looking at the person interviewing you makes us think that you can't be trusted or are hiding something. If you have a hard time looking someone in the eye, look at their forehead instead. They won't know the difference.

Job Interview Rule 5: Speak English

Leave the slang at home and try to speak in coherent sentences. When interviewing for a job, it is assumed that you will be representing the company to the outside world in one fashion or another. We as interviewers, want you to project a professional image of our company to others should you be hired.

Job Interview Rule 6: Be Polite

Always use, "Sir," and "Ma'am," "Please" and "Thank You." Being polite shows respect and will immediately put you in a good light. It also demonstrates that you can conduct yourself in a professional manner under stress. Job interviews are stressful after all.

Job Interview Rule 7: Smile

Show us those pearly whites! Try to be as warm and as friendly as possible without telling us your entire life story. Even if you are nervous, just making an effort to smile can go a long way. If you can establish a rapport with the interviewer you are more likely to land that perfect job. Think of your paycheck... that should make you smile.

Job Interview Rule 8: Be Confident

Do your very best to appear confident and secure in your abilities to do the job you are interviewing for. A word of caution here, don't be over-confident. It's generally not a good idea to assume that you have the job until it is offered to you.

Remember that most hiring managers are looking for reasons not to hire someone; don't give them any. Follow these 8 simple rules and you too will shine in a job interview.