If you've been in the job search for very long, you know how competitive it is out there.  The job search has changed, and it's nothing like what you're probably used to.  But there are things you can do to make yourself stand out as a candidate...and that's where this series comes in.  Previously, we've covered:

Part 1 - Rethinking your job search

Part 2 - Using social media to help you land the job

Part 3 - Using the right tools to impress your interviewer

Part 4 - Job shadowing

Today's post is part 5:  Polish Your Interview Skills

You already know the basic rules for interviewing:  dress appropriately (usually, that means conservatively), watch your body language, and prepare answers to typical interview questions.  And they really are make-or-break issues.

But did you know how important it is to ask questions of your own?

Or that you must ask for the job before you leave?

These actions demonstrate your confidence and professionalism.  They definitely help you stand out, because you’ve gone a step or two farther than most candidates who just answer what they’re asked.

Asking questions of your own shows that you’ve done your research, you think strategically, and you have great communication skills.  Yes, you should ask about the company and the job, but you should also ask “What are you looking for in this position?” or even, “Tell me about your best employee.”  That’s going to give you big clues to what the hiring manager wants to hear in your answers, and you can tailor them accordingly.

Asking for the job shows that you want it.  Many candidates are afraid to be that bold, but you have to do it.  If you don’t, hiring managers wonder if you really want the job, or if you have enough initiative to do it well.  Simply ask, “What’s the next step?” or “Are you confident that I’m a person who can meet the challenges of this position?”  You’ll uncover any doubts the hiring manager has about you so that you can deal with them right then and there.  Don’t let this opportunity pass you by, because chances are you won’t get another one.

What else can you do?

• Check out this free one-hour training class:  How to Get a Better Job - Faster!

• Read all the articles on this blog, and go to Career Confidential's YouTube Channel for videos to walk you through the whole interview process--including the all-important follow up.

• Invest in yourself by hiring an interview coach to role play interview questions with you. Sometimes it results in a big shift in strategy or style, and sometimes it's just the small tweak you need to put you ahead of other candidates.

Good luck!

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