The tips (T) that can put professionalism into actual responses to questions are cloaked in many details. They are small, but extremely significant, elements in overall interview process. Realize that your articulation and vocabulary is being scrutinized thoroughly. Using "kinda, yeah, and gonna” are some words to avoid. Make sure your responses are concise, specific, and not rambling. Your responses, as a rule, should be no longer than 2 minutes. You need to make sure that you are honest and focused. It is important that abilities and accomplishments not be exaggerated. Your demeanor should be one of openness, confidence and enthusiasm. Eye contact is a must, along with natural gestures that help you establish a connection or rapport with interviewer(s). If you are asked to tell about what a former employer would say about you, put it in quote form to specifically provide details of their assessment of you. Above all, do not ever use phrases, "To be honest or in all honesty." It could give impression that you aren’t honest in other areas. Picture yourself confident, leaning forward, chin up, not fidgeting. Visualize success.

After interview (A), a follow up routine can be most impressive to interviewer(s). Besides thanking them at interview when you stand up to leave, following up with a personalized letter is a very appropriate thing to do. If you do not get position, it is also appropriate to ask for feedback on how your interview could have been improved. Many human resources administrators will willingly schedule an appointment to review strengths and weaknesses of interview.

If you didn’t get position, don’t burn any bridges with company or organization. Just because you did not get first one for which you applied, does not mean that you won’t get another position that opens up. A lot has to do with whether you are perceived as "a fit for particular position." Always try to understand whether your particular qualifications and experiences are a good match with expectations of a specific position. Staying with five steps (PASTA) will help you prepare and help you get an edge on those who are just relying on luck. Get prepared and remember fundamentals.

I have recently worked with a client who after being self-employed for last two years was interested in going into sales. He was discouraged at his chances before he even started because he lacked experience as a sales representative and had no college degree. Now, while it is true that some large companies will not hire sales reps without college degrees, fact is that there are many small companies who are very willing to hire someone without a college education if they see strong skills and abilities in other areas. Together, my client and I have put together a resume that highlighted sales and marketing skills that he had developed during time that he owned his own business as well as a strong action plan which targets small businesses.

The key to success in this process ultimately comes down to thinking outside box that we tend to place ourselves in at times, positioning ourselves to highlight what we bring to table, and ultimately getting incredibly proactive.