How to Answer Any Interview Question

1. Do your homework. Learn as much as you can about the job, the employer and its executives beforehand. Use this information to answer direct questions and to then segue into a discussion about your qualifications and fit.

2. Have anecdotes ready. Many interviewers ask questions that require candidates to provide examples of how they handled a difficult challenge or other work situation. Such questions often start with a phrase such as, "Tell me about a time when you faced…."

3. Be positive about the negative. Count on being asked about a past mistake or blemish on your career record, and don't try to dodge the issue. If you have a vulnerability, you need to be prepared to answer the question, there should be no lying or dodging. Just answer it and move on.

Relax

A relaxed job candidate is a confident job candidate.

Show the interviewer that you're calm, composed and in command during an interview. He's likely to assume that you'll be rock-solid on the job, too.

Use these tips to stay relaxed during an interview:

• Breathing deeply and slowly (and quietly, of course).
• Sit up straight and don't cross your legs or arms.
• Speak slowly and pause for breath often.
• Keeps your hands and jaw relaxed; no clenching.
• Smile -- it really is contagious!