While this may seem obvious, employers say appearance will either disqualify a prospective employee immediately or move the applicant along to the next level. When in doubt, it's better to dress too conservatively rather than too casually. And don't overdo the makeup, cologne or perfume.

Be on time for your appointment, or a little early if possible. And if the interview is only 30 minutes, don't give eight-minute answers.  Try not to be early, but if you do end up arriving late, don't point it out.  

Before you walk in, take a few deep breaths to calm your nerves. Give a firm handshake (not limp or bone-crushing) while looking the interviewer in the eye.  Practice this in advance, if necessary.

Once the interview begins, use humor where appropriate, especially to defuse inappropriate or touchy questions. Avoid stiff, canned speeches.

Don't cross your arms or fiddle nervously with a pen, a paper clip or a piece of paper.  You want to be natural yet convey energy and initiative.

Don't interrupt or ask questions at this point. You don't want to come across as overly aggressive. Listen carefully. There will come a time to ask questions, and this is when you can demonstrate your range of knowledge about the company, its products and how your skills and experience fit their needs.

Enthusiasm is often a significant factor in hiring. Recruiters respond to a candidate's enthusiasm about a job. They want team players, yet they also want someone who comes in with new ideas and eagerness -- unlikely to be found in an employee who has had a dozen similar jobs and who may be nearing burnout.

If the interview is drawing to a close and money hasn't yet been mentioned, it's OK to say "Can you give me some idea of what the salary range might be?" If the employer names a low figure, explain that you know people in your profession are paid between X and Y and that with your skills and experience, you would, of course, want to be paid near the top of that scale.

Employers are more likely to respond favorably if you emphasize how you can help the company's bottom line. And that's where doing your homework comes in handy in stressing why your skills are worth top dollar.

As you shake hands goodbye, restate the key message that you want the job. That won't cinch things, but it will set you apart from the pack, experts say. One good approach is to say, "You've given me a great picture of ABC Company and it just confirms in my mind that ABC Company remains my first choice. I'd really like to work for you. Thank you for taking the time to meet with me.  If there's any other information you need, please give me a call."

For example, if you reach the point in the interview where you've agreed on money, don't walk out so starry-eyed that you forget to get it in writing. If the employer doesn't provide this, offer to compose your own letter. Start by saying thank you, then continue, "Here's what I think we discussed."

Your note will land on the recruiter's desk at a crucial time and remind him or her that you remain enthusiastic and interested.  Even if you don't get the job, wait three weeks, then send a card. It's possible that the chosen candidate changed his or her mind due to issues such as housing costs, schools or climate. And again, your note will remind the recruiter of your availability at a crucial time. Alternately, the recruiter might recommend you for another job or a second position that opens up. The letter could say something like: "I really appreciated the chance to talk to you. I'm sorry things didn't work out but I'm still very interested in case something opens up."  Do not send this via email--you want it to sit on the interviewer's desk. 

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