Joyce Lain Kennedy

Does the thought of interviewing for a new job send shivers down your spine? It doesn’t have to.Whether you’re searching for your first job, changing careers, or looking to advance in your current field, shine in every job interview by staying positive and overcoming negatives, such as getting fired or your own shyness.

You have to prepare for each and every job interview. Show your future bosses that you’re smart and ready for anything — and that you can communicate clearly and not go off track. Take a look at the following pointers to learn how to prepare for an interview. When answering interview questions, concentrate on what you can do for the company, not on what the company can do for you.

If your last job didn't work out, how do you explain that to potential employers? If you were given the boot by your last boss, see if one of these answers may help you in your job interviews.. Although I didn’t immediately realize it in this tight economy, hindsight makes me realize that being cut loose was a blessing in disguise.

The first rule of job interviewing is to project a favorable image of yourself. The second rule is to never forget the first. While the following tips may seem obvious, interviewers say that job seekers often stumble over the same blunders. Relevant experience. When asked whether you’ve had directly-related experience, say “yes” if you have and cite achievements proving it.

Are you a bundle of nerves during job interviews? Does your shyness make your mind go blank at inopportune moments? If interviews make you feel like you’re up to bat with two outs and the bases loaded, remember these tips on handling the pressure: Show and tell with striking visuals. Bring along a highly selective sample of your accomplishments (no landfills).