In today’s society, the standard for success in the job market is “A good education, good connections, and a good suit.” But without a perfect balance of superior interview skills and essential etiquette, you have no way of standing out in a pool of worthy candidates. Presenting yourself in a graceful yet dignified manner allows the interviewer to not only be impressed with how qualified you are on paper, but also with capability to be a proper physical representation of the company.

Dress for success. Your wardrobe is the very first impression that you get to make, and you want it to be an admirable one. A vast majority of professional businesses uphold the standard of wearing a suit. And while this may not always be the case, it is much better to be over dressed than to be under dressed.

Attitude is everything. Not only do interviewers want employees that are positive but they also want to see that you are engaged. By presenting your passion for your profession, you indicate that you are qualified, for more reasons than one, to do your particular job well. Furthermore, keep in mind a professional will be able to tell the difference between arrogance and confidence.

Do your research. Knowing both the company and the interviewer provides you with adequate leverage to promote yourself. Businesses want to see that you not only know about the company and support its mission, but are able to take that knowledge and present how you as an individual can contribute to better the overall company. With online tools such as social media outlets and programs such as LinkedIn, it is to your benefit to enter your interview having done the necessary research.

What is on paper matters too. Not only does your resume highlight a sample of your skills and achievements, but it is also serves as an indicator of your organization. Be sure to review your resume prior to entering the interview to avoid being caught off guard by an inquiry regarding your professional history.

Communicate gratitude. Whether the interview goes flawlessly or it was a calamity, the person interviewing you will distinctly remember your genuine thank you as your last remark. Additionally, it is never a bad idea to follow up with a professional thank you email. Not only does this display professional politeness but it also keeps your name in the forefront of the company’s mind.

Lacking social graces can cost an individual several job opportunities. Although one may have impressive credentials, without equal social skills, their career cannot meet its full potential. The next time you or a friend have a major interview, keep in mind that manners can go a long way.