Good interviewing skills are vital in today's job market. Being prepared for your interview is the best plan to get the job you want.

Here are the basic principles to prepare for your interview:

1. Dress professionally. Never wear anything too casual, dirty, wrinkled, low-cut, or provocative. A suit is always appropriate.

2. Be on time.

3. Bring a copy of your resume for the interviewer and another for yourself. Even though you most-likely emailed your resume to apply for the position, the interviewer will appreciate and remember your organization. They may not have printed your resume.

4. Be prepared to answer common questions about your employment history like, reasons for leaving, your goals, how you resolved past conflicts with coworkers, why they should hire you, strengths, weaknesses, and the "tell me about yourself" kicker question.

5. Keep your answers brief and positive.

6. Do not talk negatively about previous employers or coworkers.

7. Do not talk about religion or politics.

8. Believe in yourself and your qualifications-sell yourself. The fact that you were called in for an interview means the company has interest in you.

9. Smile-you have nothing to lose!

10. Send a hand written note thanking the interviewer for their time.