Are you ready to be the top candidate at every job interview you attend?

The competition for jobs is stiff, so if you want to stand out as the best candidate, you need to do some preparation and go that extra mile to be the best.

Here are nine top tips to help you be the one they'll want to hire.

Be Better Than on Time

Always aim to arrive 15 minutes early.

Arriving on the dot makes you look like you dashed in at the last minute, which won't make a good first impression.

Rehearse your route to the interview a couple of days before.

If possible, do a practice run at the same time of day as your interview is scheduled for, so you'll get a true idea of traffic and travel conditions.

Dress for Success

When it comes to interview dress, err on the side of formal.

Even if your potential new work place is casual or smart-casual, dress smartly for your interview.

Dress professionally, and make sure everything is clean and well presented, from your hair down to your shoes.

Ask the Right Questions

At some point in the interview, you'll be asked if you have any questions. Prepare ahead of time so that when the time comes, you'll be ready with your questions.

Choose questions that show genuine interest in the company and the role you're interviewing for.

Do Your Research

As the article "How to Be the Top Candidate at Every Interview" says, doing thorough research into the company and your interviewers will help you during your interview.

Research will help you answer questions and show an understanding of the company.

That tells your interviewers that you're already interested and invested in your new role.

Assume Everything Counts

From the moment you walk through the front door of the premises, assume you're being interviewed.

Everyone from the receptionist to the person who brings you coffee could be asked to give feedback on you.

Treat everyone you meet professionally and with respect.

Stay on Point

Getting the length of your answers right can be a challenge.

You want to give plenty of information, but at the same time do try to remember that your interviewers aren't looking for your life story.

For every question, do your best to keep your answers on point, and make sure you've fully answered the question.

Give Hard Evidence

Hard evidence will go a long way with your interviewers.

Instead of telling them that you can improve their bottom line, give an example of a time when your work boosted your employer's profits.

Whatever you claim in your interview, back it up with real world examples. Don't just tell your interviewers why you're right for the job - show them.

Stay Calm

Interviews are nerve-racking, there's no doubt about that. But getting flustered or rambling won't make the impression you were hoping for.

Stay calm in your interview by taking a moment to think before you answer a question.

If you don't understand something, ask for clarification rather than just guess at the answer they're looking for.

Know Your Value

Before your interview, draw up a list of your strengths, skills and successes. Go in armed with a thorough knowledge of your own value.

Your interview is your chance to market yourself.

Do that by knowing your value, and then using your answers to express that to your interviewers.

You only get to make one first impression.

Follow these tips and make sure the first impression you make is that of someone who is a fantastic fit for your new role.

Photo credit: BigStockPhoto.com

About the Author: Tristan Anwyn writes on a variety of topics including social media, how to build customer relationships, content marketing and how to ace your job interview.