Even with all of the technological advances available these days, you still need to keep some old rules in mind when applying for a job. Whether you are applying for a job at a fast food restaurant or a multi-million dollar corporation, you need to understand that when you interview for a job you are selling yourself. Presenting yourself correctly can help you to get or not get hired.

After you have determined what job you want to apply for and you have given out your resume, you need to call the company to request a job interview.

When you schedule the interview either by phone or in person, you will come into contact with the receptionist or an assistant to the person who may possible hire you. It is important to be courteous and friendly to this person as they are the first contact that you have with that company and they could provide information about you to your potential boss.

Next you will go to your job interview.

There are three basic factors that contribute to you making a good impression and getting hired. The three basic factors are how you dress, how you speak and carry yourself, and being prompt.

Improving your interviewing skills is essential. Here are seven ways for you to improve your skills:

1.) Interview preparation.

The first thing that you need to consider is how you should be dressed. This is the first thing that an interviewer will notice about you and you want the first opinion to be good. Dress appropriately, make sure that your hair is combed and you are groomed correctly, and sit or stand up straight.

Basic courtesy is something that should be practiced no matter what you are doing. This includes being on time for your interview. Be sure that you know exactly where your interview will be held so that you will be there early enough to prepare yourself mentally and will not be running in at the last minute. Turn off your cell phone. This will help you to avoid any unnecessary distractions.

2.) Research the prospective company.

Learn about the basics of the company. You want to be prepared for any questions that an interviewer may ask you, so be sure that you know how you can contribute to their particular company and industry. It is important that you have a clear picture of their company profile in your mind so that you are prepared for anything that might be thrown at you.

Prepare some answers to a few basic questions, but don't practice so much that you sound scripted. It is not opening night on the stage. You just need an overview of how you would answer a particular question so that you have some idea of what to say, but you still allow yourself to be somewhat spontaneous and show some of your personality.

3.) Be friendly and positive.

Imagine that you are seated and the interview is about to begin. It is important that you maintain eye contact, have a firm handshake, a smile that is friendly, and a polite, friendly greeting. Don't sit until you are asked to do so by the interviewer and thank them for their time at the end of the interview. Their time is important and let them realize that you know this.

Start out on a positive, confident note in your interview.

4.) Confidence is key.

During your interview, it is important to answer questions briefly and as accurately as possible. Honesty is the best policy in job interviews and in life.

You want to make sure that the future employer really gets a picture of who you are and what you can do for their company, not what they can do for you. Be positive about what you can offer them and leave them with a good impression.

Even if you are applying for a first job, you want to be positive about yourself. Don't let your lack of experience keep you from getting the job. Make up for a lack of experience in confidence and an eagerness to learn.

Put yourself in your prospective employer's shoes. Imagine that you are the employer and ask yourself what qualities you would look for in an employee. Then ask yourself whether you would profit the company by contributing to the company's development.

Show the prospective employer that you are sure of yourself and what you can do for them. Don't be afraid to sell what you can do for them, but don't be overconfident.

5.) Ask questions.

Do not let yourself be intimidated by a difficult interviewer. If they will not let you get a word in, remember that they are supposed to learn more about you, so ask them questions that you want to know about so that they can learn more about you.

6.) Ending the interview.

When you get to the end of the interview, you will want to make sure that you have covered any questions that you may have. It is not the time now to ask about any salary or benefits that you might receive if they hire you. After you get the position and are discussing the job offer is a good time to do this.

End the interview by summarizing any strengths that you have and your positive qualities. Thank the interviewer at the end of the interview for taking time out of their day. This will leave them with a lasting impression of you.

7.) After the interview.

A thank you note is a wonderful thing to send after the interview. Thank the interviewer for taking time out of their day and for giving you an opportunity to work for their company.

Interviewing does not have to be difficult. If you do your research and do the following things, then you may be on your way to have a new and exciting job.