01:00 AM EDT on Sunday, April 23, 2006

Preparing for a job interview * Find recent articles on the industry and market of the employer to help kick-start a conversation with the interviewer.

* Bring a list of questions you want answered before you leave the interview, such as the job requirements and potential career path.

* Bring extra copies of your résumé and examples of your work, such as projects, a portfolio or clippings.

* Bring a notebook and pen. Take notes but don't bury your head in the notebook. These notes will help you reference back to specifics in your follow-up thank-you note.

* Bring references in writing. Call references to make sure they know of the job you're seeking.

* Ask someone to quiz you on likely interview questions and critique your answers. This is a good time to make sure you do not ramble on or become nervous when asked certain questions.

* Be ready for tough questions, such as "Why are you unemployed?" and "Why should we hire you?"

* Have someone double check your résumé.

* Ask someone to look at what you've decided to wear.

* Do not overload on perfume or cologne. Bring a breath freshener.

At the interview

* Look sharp as you enter the company. The employer may ask a secretary or a coworker for impressions of you.

* Give a firm handshake, make eye contact and speak in a distinct, understandable, confident voice.

* Ask to meet with team members you will work with.

* Pay attention to the questions; look out for anything that should raise a red flag about working conditions.

* Answer the questions asked.

* Provide specific examples of accomplishments.

* Thank the interviewer; ask when you will hear from the company.

* Send a follow-up thank-you note that has been proofread.

Prepare for these questions

* Tell me about yourself.

* Why are you interested in the job?

* What do you want to know about the company?

* What is one of your greatest strengths?

* What is one of your weaknesses?

* Why should we hire you ?