The job interview can be an intimidating affair; whether you're a recent college graduate looking for that first job, or a professional taking a new turn in your career, the interview is a critical part of the job process. It's a good idea to practice your interviewing skills with a friend before stepping foot in that office; many people don't realize how they come across and present themselves in a professional setting, and practice will help you become more confident and hopefully, successful!

Reading up on the basics is a great place to start. Here are top three books on interviewing that can help groom you towards interview success:

#1: Win the Interview, Win the Job: Outshine the Competition with Great Preparation and Skill by Caryl and Ron Krannich is filled with solid advice on the entire interview process. From handling a stressful question to effective listening and communication skills, this is a great book that captures all the basics. The book can also help you with salary negotiation tips, and the critical elements involved with preparation. If you've ever wondered what the post-interview process really entails, this book offers some useful insights and information.

#2 : Interview Fitness Training: A Workout with Carole Martin, the Interview Coach is a valuable addition to the library of any job-seeker. This book can help guide you in the right direction from the beginning of the hiring cycle, right through to the thank-you note. The real-life examples can give you some great do's and don'ts for each interview type, and Carole Martin's casual and humorous tone will help you rest easy.

#3: 101 Great Answers to the Toughest Interview Questions by Ron Fry is a must-read for every job candidate. If you've ever found yourself stumped by the interviewer's questions as you anxiously searched for answers, this handbook can be a valuable read. The book is filled with plenty of commonly asked questions, along with a strategy for success.

Learning how to interview successfully requires strong communication skills, confidence, and doing your homework; being able to intelligently talk about the company, your personal goals, and developing a professional presence can help you in a variety of areas. Good luck!