Whether you’re a workforce veteran or a newbie, here are some tips on how to handle job interviews the right way:

1. Dress professionally. Make sure to arrive in the right corporate attire to gain trust and respect. You don’t have to buy expensive clothing to make a positive impression—Just make sure your outfit looks neat and sharp, and is free of wrinkles and stains. Choose a style that’s age-appropriate.

2. Get to the office five minutes before your appointment. It’s best to show up five minutes ahead of the scheduled interview time. Don’t show up too early—otherwise, you may end up in awkward stare-offs with people, including your interviewer or hiring manager. In case you do arrive early, stay outside of the meeting area and take care of any last-minute preparation or any small outside issues that could affect your focus.

3. Be prepared. Do you have all your questions ready? Did you get more information about your hiring manager or the company? Are you aware of the responsibilities of the position? In addition, don’t forget to bring your resume, and keep it in a folder to keep it crisp and clean. You may want to bring a notebook and a pen in case you need to write something down.                                                                                                 

4. Don’t be all talk. Prove that you have the right skills and experience by bringing concrete data and detailed proof of your achievements. Focus on real-life examples that will highlight your skills and bring out your top traits that fit the position.

5. Have a conversation. Make sure you know how to talk and listen during the interview. Both parties should be engaged in the conversation in order for it to work. Be ready to talk about your background, and what you know about the company you are applying for. Hiring managers prefer to hire employees that are proactive and interested in current trends.