The Secret to a Memorable Job Interview

Interviews can be scary. You could be waiting in the line-up with dozens of other prospective employees, all seeking one job opening. Or you could be alone in a room waiting for your turn to face the dreaded interviewers.

First off, be professional. No nose rings, lip rings, eyebrow piercings. No matter what the job, the interviewer will remember any unusual piercings before they will remember you as an individual.

Now that you've gotten past the first visual impression, it's time to really show your stuff. How? Simple.

Know the company that you are applying to. What was that? Know something about the company.

When you're called to set up the interview appointment, ask the receptionist (the ones usually setting appointments) about the place. What do they do? If their name explains the business ... i.e. Joe's Car Service Center ... ask what makes them different from their competition. Receptionists are there to be helpful and most know the ins and outs better than other employees. It's their job to do so. Milk them for info -- politely of course.

Find out what your job would entail, if the description is vague or you're not sure. A simple question, What can you tell me about the position? can go a long way.

Find out if the company, if not a major corporation, is it individually owned, a partnership, or how is it organized. Who will be interviewing you? Will it be the business manager, an office manager, or the owner?

If you're lucky enough to be interviewed by the owner of a small company, while a daunting proposition, you'll have a wonderful opportunity to express your interest in his company. Ask how it was formed. (This also works for partnerships.) How long have you been in business?

Interviewers can be just as nervous or anxious as interviewees. They're trying to find the right fit for their business. Expressing an interest in their company shows that you are open, interested, and curious. Ask about your job, but ask about the company history.

If you're interviewing for a large company, with a manager, ask how they came to work for the company and how they like it. If they hesitate, or don't like working for the company, you'll get a good heads up of potential problems before you start working.

Interviewers remember most the people that take a few minutes to express interest. These people stand out from the line up of black & white resumes and the same old tired questions.

It's a long day when you're interviewing dozens of people with similar qualifications. Make yourself stand out. Ask questions too.