Start preparing for an interview as soon as you apply. Do not wait until the last minute. Some places will set the interview date and time and some will allow you to select a date and time. Make a choice as soon as possible and be sure that it does not conflict with anything else on your schedule. You want plenty of extra time before and after the interview in case something unexpected comes up.
Make sure you know the location of the interview and how to get there. If you are not familiar with the area save the directions on your cell phone if you have one. If not, print them off. Give yourself plenty of time to get there. Arrange transportation if you do not have your own. It is better to get there early and wait in the parking lot until 15 minutes before the interview starts than not allow enough time and show up late.
You will most likely will be nervous so the more prepared you are the smoother things will go.
Keep a list of specific examples of experiences that highlight your skills and abilities. Some examples are: a time when you de-escalated a tense situation, stayed calm in an emergency, went above and beyond, and/or accomplished something great.
Rehearse: Sometimes you may know that interviews questions in advance. Other times, you may have to rehearse generic interview questions that are typically asked during an interview. Also notes that most interviewers expect you to provide specific examples and experiences not just answer questions with short answers. Keep in mind you may interview with one person or several people. Be prepared for the pressure. Do mocks interviews with family, friends, co-workers, or search for free local mock interview places online.
Research: Research the company your are interviewing with and if possible the person/people you will be interviewing with. Look for a mission statement on their website. Learn about the history or origin of the company. Look for recent articles related to the company's successes and activities within the community.
Arrival: Arrive about 15 minutes early but no earlier unless requested to do so. Arriving too early may impose on the interviewers prep time.
Body Language: Be aware or your demeanor and body language. Smile. Make eye contact. Have good posture. Stay aware of the placement of your arms and legs. If a handshake is initiated be sure to give a firm but not overbearing handshake.
Dress professional: Regardless of what type of job you are interviewing for you should always dress professionally for an interview.
Cell phone: If you must bring your cell phone, make sure your it is silenced or off.
Timing: When you're answering questions do not cut off the person asking the question. Wait until they are completely finished asking the question then answer. Don't take over the interview. Let the interviewers run the show.
Water: If you are offered water take it. You never know if your throat will be dry or if you just need to pause a minute. Taking a drink of water could help when you need a little extra time to respond.
Notes: Bring a professional looking binder and pen and take notes. This shows that you are prepared and interested.
Be positive: NEVER talk negatively about previous jobs, bosses, or co-workers. Speak clearly. Do not use slang. Be respectful and professional.
Bad interviews: Even if an interview is going badly or you feel like the job isn't for you do not back out or blow the interview. Always do your best, finish the interview, and stay positive. You never know what opportunities could arise or be missed depending on how you handle an interview. Interviewing is never a waste because the more you interview the more comfortable you will be and the better you get at it. Not to mention it is a form of networking.
Ask questions: When the interviewer asks if you have any questions always ask at least 1-3 questions. Appropriate questions. Be careful not to ask TOO many questions.
After the interview: Always promptly follow-up with a thank you note. During your interview you may want to collect contact information from the interviewers. You can send your thank you note via mail however this may take too long to reach them. You can also send individual emails to each interviewer and if possible touch on something specific that you remember about them or a question they asked you. If you prefer to give a tangible thank you note you may want to hand deliver them so they are delivered promptly.