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Step 1
LAST MINUTE PROOFREADING / EDITTING- You've typed up the resume, before sending, spell check, reread it! I've had many a job opportunities which I've blown because of this step. Also, did you include special eye catchers to show potential employers that you can do beyond what they've listed in the job description (special accomplishments you've made, ex: training, efficiency improvements, cost saving ideas).
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Step 2
GET AT LEAST THREE QUESTIONS IN MIND- Now hopefully within 2 weeks you will get that phone call or email for an interview. This step is called RESEARCH. Try to find out more about that company. If they have a website, make it a goal to glimpse through it at a high level. If you know people there, as them questions about the company. Try and get this step done no later than two days before the interview. The goal here is be prepared for that ever looming interview question "so, do you have any questions for me?". General questions, don't get hung up on specifics. If you go to a job interview with no questions prepared, generally most employers might view that as you were not prepared, you're not serious about the job, so at least have 3 questions in your mind before the interview.
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Step 3
GO IN THERE WITH ALL ENGINES RUNNING- Get enough rest the night before the interview. You want to walk with energy. On the day of the interview, remember to eat a breakfast. If you're a coffee person, I strongly suggest you get that in too, but be sure you have a breath mint or brush again after coffee!!
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Step 4
BACK TO BASICS- Now even though the next two suggestions might seem basic, I had to struggle on both. First, remember to smile. Second, keep eye contact. Even if you're the smartest guy who's always the workaholic, these days, people skills is an important attribute most employers are looking for.....so SMILE. The second one, eye contact, when I get nervous, I use to have a tendency to look around. What I didn't realize was the body language that was communicating. Generally most people would view that as an individual who is dishonest or has something to hide. I was just nervous....so remember EYE CONTACT.
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Step 5
LISTEN AND BE PROACTIVE- Although in step 2 you have your three questions ready, listen and flow with your interview. If there is an opportunity to ask a question earlier, ASK....do not wait till the end of the interview when they ask you for questions. I always found those to be awkward moments where I was thinking, "oh great, he's going to think I'm an idiot now with no questions". The key is to listen to what they are saying so that you can pick up question opportunities. Last step of an interview, remember to get business cards so that you can write thank you notes.
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Step 6
LAST CHANCE TO SELL YOURSELF...REMEMBER THE THANK YOU LETTER/ EMAIL- Although some of my peers feel this as unimportant, I can not stress enough the importance of getting a thank you letter out. Its your last chance to get a word in on the job opportunity. If you really love the position, I would even suggest getting it out sooner. My preference has been custom thank you notes, to mention something from the interview, to say one more time high level, what I have to bring to the table, and of course, the thank you.
