In the last four years of my life, I have worked over 10 jobs for a variety of employers.

Effective interviewing is a critical skill that will help you land your first, next, or dream position.

Here are the tips I have picked up from completing dozens of successful interviews:

Preparation

1. Study the job description

List every qualification they are looking for and why you are qualified for the part. Previous job experience, relevant coursework, volunteering, and clubs can all be great examples to show case.

If an employer is looking for a social media guru, be sure to mention your experience and passion for social media.

Try to cover all the bases. Even if you aren’t an expert yet for a requirement, highlight what you are doing to learn and improve in that area.

2. Research the company

If you are serious about a position, you should have a good feel for what you are diving into. You should have a strong overview of the company services, the various departments, work culture, and corporate social responsibility.

Check out the company website, social media pages, and reviews from employees and customers.

Take reviews with a grain of salt. Just because the company didn’t align with someone else’s values doesn’t mean that they won’t be a good fit for you.

3. Research the employees

Employees at the company you are applying for were hired for a reason.

I always look up previous employees that held the position I’m interested in. Take note of what qualities and experiences they highlight about themselves. Their job descriptions might give a more detailed insight to what the job will entail.

Looking up other employees in your department also helps you to get an idea of who you could be working with. Alumni from your university or home town can be an advantage.

If you know who you are interviewing with, always look these people up!

Day of the interview

4. Dress the part

What you wear will depend on the job and the company. In general, wearing a black blazer, nice top, and slacks will be perfect. Dress shoes and professional heels are the ideal shoes. For women, flats will also be great. Don’t chew gum!

To determine what I will wear for an interview, I look through the company’s pictures. If you can find examples of what employees wear for professional meetings and presentations, take some inspiration.

For gentlemen, some companies have policies about facial hair. Be sure to consider this before your interview.

5. Bring your resume/thank you cards

Your interviewer will appreciate a hard copy of your resume/CV.

Bring thank you cards and a pen for after the interview. After the interview, go into the bathroom or your car and write a brief thank you note for each interviewer. You can leave them with reception.

6. Be prompt

Know where you are going ahead of time! Watch for traffic and bad weather.

During the interview

7. Take notes during

Ask if you can take notes at the start of your interview. During phone interviews, I have my notes and company research in front of me while I speak.

8. Be confident

Easier said than done. Maintain tall posture and keep eye contact. Take some deep breaths and be yourself.

Link your answers back to the company

Make every answer relevant to the company and position. If the interviewer says “so tell me about yourself,” briefly say who you are and end with why you want to work there or what you are looking for.

Be sure to ask at least 1-3 questions!

After the interview

9. Follow up email/card

It’s a good idea to send a follow-up email and write a thank you email. Doing this extra step will make the interviewers feel appreciated and gives them a chance for any additional information they may need about you.

Interviews can be tough, but with proper preparation you will be successful.

Best of luck in your next interview!