Applying for a new job is a process. You need to give careful thought to it beforehand. Never apply for a job on the spur of the moment. It is advisable to do some research in advance. Give due consideration to applying. Make sure you’re applying for the right job at the right time for the right reasons.

Then you can apply in the knowledge that you’re giving yourself the best chance possible to get the job. Look carefully at the job posting or advertisement. Read the fine print and make sure you understand the requirements and responsibilities.

If you feel this job is for you, then follow these steps prior to applying:

1. Get your resumé in order

Without a good resumé, your chances of seeing the inside of an interview room are slim. You need to have a basic resumé that you alter to tailor it to the job itself. Having a generic, one-size-fits-all resume isn’t going to cut it.

Resumé writing is not as easy as it sounds. If you’re serious about applying for a job, look for the top resumé writing services online. They can help you write the perfect resumé that will get you beyond the application and to the interview.

A well-written resumé that caters to the specifics of the job posting or advertisement at hand is critical. The presentation of your resumé is also important. Check that the advertisement doesn’t give resumé specifications. If it does, you need to adhere to them. Make your resumé as interesting as possible but keep it professional.

2. Do your research

Investigate the organization you’re applying to so that you have some background information. If you can incorporate it into the interview, it will show your level of preparedness.

Go through and study the job requirements. They will come up in some of the interview questions. Think about how your current qualifications and experience tie-up with the job requirements.

Make sure you are up to date on all relevant policies, statutes, reports, and analysis of the job field. It again indicates a level of commitment on your part if you can answer questions about these during the interview.

Remember to make sure that your answers are not too scripted. When you speak about your research in the interview, it needs to flow naturally. If it’s too rehearsed, it comes across as contrived.

3. Keep your social media profiles up to date

During the application process, the prospective employer may investigate your social media presence. Your representation on social media platforms speaks volumes about you.

Start by making sure that your LinkedIn profile is up to date with all your current experience and skills. Then look at your Twitter and Facebook accounts. Make sure that you remove or hide any posts that you’d prefer a prospective employer not to see. It is better to remember the rule that ‘once it’s out there, it’s out there.’

Be circumspect in what you post online. Also, remember that what you post or comment on in a moment of anger can count against you in the long-run. Let social media make, not break, your application.

4. Build up your confidence

When you apply for a job, the interview process requires you to exude confidence. Most people feel confident when they look good. It may require a financial layout but get yourself an ‘interview ensemble.’ You should feel a confidence boost the second you put this outfit on. Get a friend or family member to help you choose the right one if you’re not sure.

Attend to your personal appearance. Make sure that your hair is neat and tidy. For ladies who choose to wear makeup, perfect your look. It needs to be understated and professional but draw attention as well. Gentlemen should make sure they are clean-shaven or have had their facial hair trimmed.

A well-groomed appearance brings across a powerful, positive message to your potential employer.

5. Visualize and collaborate

If you can imagine yourself in the job you’re applying for, you’ll boost your confidence. Think about the skills and talents you would bring to the job. Have them at the forefront of your mind when you answer questions. Your goal is to convince the employer that you are better than all the other applicants.

Get a peer, friend, or family member to help you prepare. They can ask you a few possible questions. If they’re observant, they’ll be able to point out your nervous habits so that you can avoid them. You can also go over the answers you gave them and try and find ways to improve on them.

When you think about your responses ahead of time, remember not to over-rehearse them. But be prepared. There’s nothing worse than going blank during the interview. Or that sinking feeling when you walk out and then remember all the things you should’ve said.