First impressions are worth a thousand words. This motto especially holds true in regard to a job interview. Unfortunately, many people fail to realize this, and they keep striking out. Without a thorough understanding of interview basics, you may continually strike out as well. Anyone can fill out an application, write a resume, or prepare a cover letter, but it takes someone with both intelligence and foresight to excel at an interview.

Interview Basics #1: Behave Yourself

Many people fail at job interviews because they act like buffoons. When you are at a job interview, you must closely monitor not just what comes out of your mouth, but also the way in which you conduct yourself. For instance, you shouldn't be chewing gum or sucking on breath mints during an interview. Nor should you be speaking in slang. Such behaviors are not only rude; they're also quite unprofessional.

Exude Positivity

Of all the interview basics I've ever encountered, the one I see most frequently ignored is the one pertaining to confidence and positivity. I realize that searching for a job is time-consuming, difficult, tedious, and frustrating. Your next interview be the 20th interview of the week. However, you absolutely cannot allow this attitude to permeate your job interview. You must sling aside your mopey and defeatist feelings, and charge into it brimming with positivity. Don't get me wrong, though. This doesn't mean that you should giggle in glee, or act like a narcissistic pig. The key is to act in moderation by maintaining a positive yet professional demeanor. It shows your potential employer that you are neither a Debbie Downer, nor an immature or overly cocky brat. Make sure to maintain this demeanor even if you hear something you dislike. Just make a mental note and consider bringing up the issue later.

Be Clear and Direct

Don't over-sell yourself. When you are asked a question, answer in a matter of the fact manner. Job interviewers must deal with a plethora of candidates, so their attention span isn't all that great. In fact, it looks somewhat like this...

-- After the first ten seconds, she's paying full attention.

-- After the second ten seconds, the recruiter's paying a bit less attention.

-- After a minute, her mind is starting to wander.

-- After two minutes, the recruiter isn't listening at all.

There are some questions, however, that might require long answers. When dealing with one, merely break up your spiel by interrupting it with questions of your own. They can be as simple as, "Does that make sense?" or "Is this answering your question?" Not only does it jolt the interviewer awake, but it also gives her an opportunity to speak.

Some Final Thoughts On Interview Basics

Other things you should do include: maintain eye contact; don't fidget; refrain from using outlandish hand gestures; don't bite your lips; and never shrug your shoulders as if to say, "I don't know." In fact, answer each and every question with words. Simple head shakes and nods are a big no no. Last but not least, make sure to prepare, prepare, and prepare some more. You would think everyone would know to prepare before a job interview, but you'd be surprised at how people forget one of the simplest of the interview basics.