But, it's not about taking chances and hoping that the gods are smiling on you. It doesn't even have anything to do with fate or 'Lady Luck.' It does, however, have a considerable amount to do with how well you prepare for the interview.

Consider this; there are 5 nominees chosen for the short-list. Each of you has met the prerequisites demanded through your application and hold some promise for the position but only one of you will secure it. So what exactly is this business hoping to glean from the interview?

While your application and resume outlined you deftly on a piece of paper, the job interview is trying to ascertain whether what's written is also communicated verbally and non-verbally. Let's look at these separately.

Preparing for the Job Interview - Non-Verbal Cues

• Dress Standard - We've already discussed what to wear for a job interview yet it's important to highlight this area again. It is the most important non-verbal cue you will give to your prospective employer.
• Confident Demeanour There's a big difference between 'confident' and 'arrogant'. Displaying an air of confidence needs to be counter-measured with a sense of humility. Ask a few close friends to give you some assessment on your demeanour. They may even offer some suggestions for how you may improve it.
• Firm Handshake This has also been touched on previously. If you are offered a hand to shake make sure you do with a firm grip. This will keep you in good stead towards your confidant demeanour as well.
• Body Language This topic could go on forever but let me touch a couple of key points;
  • Keep good eye contact. Focusing your eyes on your interviewer (without staring them out) shows discipline, confidence in yourself and a level of respect for authority.
  • When sitting, never cross your legs or fold your arms (even if it's cold). This non-verbal cue will tell the interviewer that you're not confident or that you have something to hide or to fear. Also, don't slouch in your chair but profess a good posture.
  • Don't fiddle, doodle, bite your nails or play with your hands. These actions all spell 'nervousness'.

There's quite an amount to consider when thinking about your job interview from a non-verbal view. However, they shouldn't be too disconcerting if you practice these prior to your interview.

Preparing for the Job Interview - The Verbal Cues

• Speaking to Others Some interviewers take notes from their receptionists as to how they were treated when the applicant arrived. They also not how you communicate and treat them, the interviewer. You r manners, or lack thereof, can communicate immensely whether you respect people and would make a good team player.
• Listening Skills This is another big point. When you're asked a question don't be too hasty to respond. Consider the question for a few seconds, even asking the interviewer to elaborate if you didn't understand what was being asked. Listening skills are a highly prized skill in the modern workforce because if you can listen well then teams that you will participate in are more likely to perform well.
• Responses to 'Red Herrings' Interviewers know that you are likely to prepare well for a position and so they try to throw a 'dummy' question to see how well you problem solve and deliver. Stay calm and be open to processing aloud. However, don't show that the question has thrown you. Take your time and speak well.
• Be Positive Remember that talking about any past negative work experiences is like talking about your ex-boyfriend. Always look for the positive angle without having to reduce the conversation to a self-promotion event.
• Ask Questions Be prepared to ask questions. The interviewee that doesn't ask any questions will be judged as either 'Uninterested' or a 'Know-It-All.' Don't get to first base on either of these assessments. Do some research on the business you want to work for and look for questions that will display your interest in the position and of the company.

  Questions about possible career opportunities and salary, if they are your only questions will only demonstrate your self-centredness.
  

The cliché proverb is correct, "Most people don't plan to fail - they just fail to plan." Beat your competitors by being the most prepared applicant on the day and don't just leave it in the lap of the gods.