Good interviewing skills are crucial when trying to obtain employment. If the interview doesn’t go well, then an employer may be inclined to hire someone else. The job interview is your opportunity to create a positive impression of yourself and can be the deciding factor in landing the job. A great resume alone will not get you the job.

Here are a few of the do’s and don’ts for interviews that will help you make a great impression and land the job.

Top 5 job interviews Do’s

1. Do be punctual. Don’t make any excuses and arrive 10-15 minutes early to allow time for possible delay and use the extra time to freshen up for the interview if you have arrived early.
2. Do dress appropriately for the industry. Err on the side of being conservative to show you take the interview seriously. Your personal grooming and cleanliness should be impeccable.
3. Do be prepared. Come prepared with as much information about the company and industry as possible. Prepare questions of your own to ask the interviewer. Good candidates want to know that the company to which they are applying to is a good personal fit for them as well. Research the company! The more you know the better off you are.
4. Do be aware of body language. Maintain good posture, look enthusiastic and make eye contact with the interviewer.
5. Do be honest. Being honest on the resume will surely shine through in the interview and beyond. Providing false or inflated information is not only unethical but could also be grounds for termination later. Don’t ever lie. Answer questions truthfully, frankly and succinctly. Provide as much information as needed and don’t over-answer questions.

Top 5 Job Interview Don’ts 

1. Don’trely on your application or resume to do the selling for you. No matter how qualified you are for the position, you will need to sell yourself to the interviewer.
2. Don’tanswer questions with a simple “yes” or “no”. Give explanation to your answers. Describe those things about yourself that showcase your talents, skills, and determination. Give specific examples.
3. Don’t place a large emphasis on salary. The salary is only discussed if and when the employer is sold on you as a candidate. Your interviewer wants to see what you can do for the company, not what’s in it for you.
4. Don’t make negative comments about former colleagues, supervisors, or employers.
5. Don’t answer your cell phone or reply to text messages. Turn it off or put it in silent mode.

While your resume will get you the job interview, the interview is what will get you the job. Make sure your interviewing skills are impressive.

Do you have a job interview coming up? Don’t be nervous! Just follow these guidelines for a more successful interview.

Zahra Sherzay is a recruitment partner at Lucas Professional Search Group.