As you prepare for your job interview, you may get advice about grooming and using a firm handshake. But there are tips and skills for job interviews that every candidate should be aware of that go beyond the standard first impression. When you know how to better prepare for your next job interview, you increase your chances of impressing a potential employer.

Breaking the Ice
Candidates often feel it necessary to get right down to business in a job interview. Hiring managers often like to engage in small talk prior to starting the interview to get a better idea of your personality. If the hiring manager offers you the chance for small talk or off-topic conversation prior to the interview starting, take the chance to show your personable side. Limit small talk to a minute or two on a single topic, and help to put the hiring manager and yourself at ease.

Be Prepared
Prior to leaving your home to go to an interview, do a personal inventory to make sure you have everything you need. Some of the required items you will need to bring to a job interview are a pen, paper, copies of your resume, a briefcase or some kind of professional document holder and a calculator. Proper preparation shows the hiring manager that you are a meticulous planner who takes your tasks seriously.

Practice Communicating
Candidates will sometimes get advice that they should practice their interview answers with a friend or business colleague to ensure a smooth delivery. To really impress a hiring manager, however, you should practice every aspect of your communication skills before heading out to an interview. Use a sample employment application form to practice writing out answers to questions. You are working on creating neat and legible writing, and formulating complete answers to each question. Watch your body language in a mirror as you do your practice interviews to avoid slouching, leaning forward or looking too casual by leaning back. You should be upright in your chair, but appear relaxed.

Etiquette
Etiquette is a skill that is sometimes forgotten when it comes to job interview advice, but it is important. When taken into a conference room for your interview, take a seat along the side of the table and do not sit at the head of the table. Allow the hiring manager to sit at the head of the table. Make eye contact from time to time, especially when you are answering questions. Allow the interviewer to finish asking her question before giving your response, and allow the interviewer to stand up first when the interview is over.