I tell my girlfriend that I’ve never had an interview with a company where I haven’t gotten the job. I’m not sure if it’s because I don’t reach out enough for more of a challenge or if it’s because I’m just damn sexy. I prefer the latter but it still doesn’t get to the bottom of things. So, how do I get the job after the first interview?

Interview the Interviewer

Subtly control the interview and assert your authoritay as Cartman would say. Don’t get out of control and make the interviewer feel uncomfortable, but break the monotony a bit. The interviewer has probably already interviewed five other candidates that have the same chance of getting the position as you do before any of you walk in.

How are you going to make a memorable and lasting impression? I have a friend who just started selling cars for the largest GM dealer in the country, Bill Heard. Brian is a Boiler Room fanatic, and always tells me, “Walk in there like you have the power to buy the company.” Exude confidence from the time you open the door to the office lobby to the time you shake the interviewer’s hand on the way out. It’s just as much of an opportunity for them to hire you as it is for you to let them.

Do Some Research

Read the newspaper on the way in. Watch the news that morning. Know what’s going on in the World around you. Know your resume front and back and know every claim you’ve made therein. Have something prepared to talk about. If you aren’t cultured, at least pretend to be. The worst mistake you can make is going in to an interview looking like you just rolled out of bed and haven’t an idea what has happened in the last 6 months. But, most importantly; know a bit about the industry: the company in specific.

Be Prepared to Explain

This is an obvious one. Why did you leave your last job? Why were you fired or why did you quit? Is your story believable? Do you have to tell a story? Consider this question, because you will be asked why you haven’t a job or want to leave the one you’re currently in. And, you don’t want to come off as an unhappy trouble-maker or someone who is bitter. Twist it if you need to, if you don’t– all the more power to you.

Ensure Your References are in the Know

Do your references realize you’re going to put their name, phone number, address, and any other number of personal details on your resume? Do they realize they will likely have to… recommend you? Make sure they have the lyrics, but let them sing them in whatever way they want. Then, thank them.

But, most importantly, realize you’re the best candidate for the position you’re applying for. Otherwise you wouldn’t have taken the time to show up and given them the opportunity to speak with you!

You may also want to check out CareerRamblings for more specific advice!