Now that you have introduced yourself to the interviewer, made some small talk and established a good beginning, you're ready to move on.  The exchange of information between you and the employer will make up most of the interview.  This is your chance to let the interviewer know why your personality, education, work experience, and skills make you the best person for the job.

For many of us, the first formal contact with an employer can be a scary experience.  If you find yourself a little tense and excited, don't worry--you are not alone.  Almost everyone experiences some anxiety and feelings of insecurity during an interview.

Some reminders to help you through the interview process:

Present your resumé. "I've brought my resumé along if you would like to see it."

Be prepared to tell the interviewer more about your:

• education, training, and skills
• desirable personality traits
• work experience

Look at the interviewer. Do not fidget.

Let the employer have control. Answer questions sincerely and completely. Be aware of natural pauses to ask your questions.

It's okay to ask for clarification if you don't understand a question. It's better to ask the interviewer to restate or explain a question and give a good answer than to try to guess what the interviewer wants and give an inappropriate one.

Don't clam up.  For most questions, the interviewer wants more than a simple "yes" or "no."

But don't give long-winded monologues that contain little relevant information, either.  An average of one to two minutes for an answer is probably about right.

Don't argue. State your opinions, if asked to do so, but don't press them.

It's okay to have an opinion that is different from that of the interviewer, but make sure you use tact when you give your opinion. "I agree, but. . ." or, "that's true, but on the other hand. . ." is more effective than "no way," or "that's a silly idea, I think. . ." Independence of thought is okay; rudeness is not.

Don't criticize others, including your former employer.

If you had differences with someone with whom you worked and have to mention these, do it in a way that is not overly critical. If you show disrespect for your former boss or co-workers, the interviewer may think that it could happen again.

Show interest in the job by asking questions about the company, their product or services, and specific details of the job for which you are applying.

Be aware of why you want this job -- stress your good points.

Keep your personal or financial problems out of the conversation.

The interviewer is interested in how well you can do the job, not in how strapped for cash you are at the moment, or about the fight you had last night with your friend.

Don't chew gum or smoke. It's just a basic common courtesy.