When on a job interview you are selling you (your brand) to your potential employer. How you dress, what you say, your body language and even lack thereof can determine whether you get the job or not.

DO:

Be Prepared  Do your research on the company you are being interviewed with. Ask relevant questions. Know your personal goals and objectives before hand
 
Be On Time  Arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment. Being late for your interview is unacceptable. Plan your travel time in advance

Look the Part  Dressing the part is very important. Your wardrobe is basically your packaging so dress appropriately i.e. wear a suit with a tie for men, nothing short or too tight, no bright colors
 
Smile and Greet  Greeting someone with a warm smile shows that your friendly and personable. Always shake the hands of your interviewer firmly and confidently and maintain eye contact

Be Honest  Stay true to who you are. Don't lie or exaggerate accomplishments. Remember we live in a social age where anything about you can be Googled
 

DO NOT:

Ask about salary and benefits  Your first interview is never the right time for asking about your salary or benefits. Concentrate on selling your brand first

Chew Gum  Chewing gum in most social circles is considered inapropriate so be certain you are NEVER chewing gum in an interview

Be Negative  Don't speak negatively about previous employers or job experiences. Always stay on the bright side of things. People are most attracted to positive people

Let Your Cell phone Ring  Please remember to put your phone on silent or turn it off before going into your interview. Being interrupted by cell phone in a job interview especially is simply disruptive and bad manners

Slouch  Maintain a dignified or elegant posture throughout your interview. It's a sign of confidence. Slouching can easily be interpreted as disinterest or sloppiness

Show Tattoos and Body Piercings  Please cover all tattoos with makeup or make sure your clothes hide it. Earrings for women should be small and conservative. Men should not wear earrings in the ear either. All other body piercings should be removed as well.

Wear anything too tight or too short  Ladies make certain that your skirts are not too short or too tight. Gentlemen be certain that you are wearing a suit that fits perfectly!

Wear heavy makeup or perfume  It is best to not wear any perfume or cologne to a job interview. If you choose to be certain that it is very subtle and not overpowering. Ladies wear your makeup sparingly. The makeup you wear to the club on the weekend may not be appropriate for meeting your potential new employer.
 

*** For these and more tips, visit personal branding and image consultant Shermain Jeremy www.myimagematters.com