The goal of any candidate at a job interview is to impress the interviewer by demonstrating the relevant knowledge and skills, asking appropriate questions and showing the depth of preparation. By asking relevant questions, you will show that you not only came to find out what the company can offer you, but also took time to think how useful you can be yourself.

Make sure that you take the following steps before going to a job interview:

1. Collect information about the company interviewing you. Try to find out what kind of services the company offers and who their main target audience is. How old is the organization? Have their priorities changed since the company was formed? Is the company private or state-owned? Are its goods and services of a seasonal nature? Have their staff been cut in the last few years? What new projects is the company working on now and what prospects do they have?

2. Collect all documents (CV, reference letters, etc.) and review them right before the interview.

3. Try to go to bed a little earlier than usual the night before.

4. Prepare your clothes in the evening. The dress code will depend on what organization you are applying to. If it is a creative agency, then try to fit in with smart pants and a bowtie, rather than a conventional suit. But don't overdo it though - it is better to look smart than outlandish.

Behavior recommendations

1. Introduce yourself clearly and confidently.

2. God forbid you chew gum during an interview.

3. Smile more (if it is appropriate, of course).

4. If you are introduced to someone, make the effort to remember their name correctly.

5. Avoid jargon and speak in full, grammatically correct sentences.

6. Avoid controversial topics such as religion and politics.

7. Sit comfortably at the beginning so that you don't shift around and so you can relax.

8. Do not speak ill of your former (or current) colleagues and bosses. Even if you quit the place because it was no longer bearable, avoid trashing the people you worked with.

What you can ask

It will be appropriate for you to ask about:

1. The history of the company.

2. Where your desired position lies within the corporate structure.

3. The work regime.

4. The duration of the trial period.

5. The remuneration.

After an interview:

1. Record the information you have obtained.

2.  Analyze the interview you’ve just had. Where did you do well? What needs more work?

3. If you were rejected, it is acceptable to ask for the reasons why you were rejected, as well as asking the company HR department to keep you in mind in case any new positions you are qualified for come up.

4. Do not be too shy to call if you haven't yet received a response. It often happens that HR departments wait for a candidate to demonstrate some interest in the position before they decide to take him or her.

You can ace a job interview, but only with preparation and effort.

Ann Aldrich is a former HR specialist, current paper writer and recruitment blogger who gives valuable advice to those who are starting their careers.