Do you know how many candidates the typical recruiter or hiring manager of a specific department has interviewed in his or her lifetime? Depending on the number of years he has been in the business, it could be hundreds, maybe even thousands. In fact, interviewers see so many different candidates come and go that it can become very difficult to differentiate between them. It is likely that even just a week or so after your meeting, the interviewer has forgotten all about you.

That is why — above all else — your main job in an interview is to make a lasting impression or, more specifically, to make a lasting positive impression. But what can you do to make sure that your name, face, and resume stand out from the hordes of others?

Screening

When an employer begins to describe the activities of the company and the typical duties that your desired job will entail, listen carefully. Think of ways you have demonstrated aptitude at these sort of duties and draw parallels between the company's needs and your own experiences. Describe your experiences in the same way you would on a resume. Emphasize your achievements, and don't be modest. On the other hand, don't exaggerate.

If you are interviewing for a competitive position or with a large company, the first interview is the most difficult. Though an initial phone screening is used to weed candidates out, the first interview is where the competition becomes even more fierce.

Those who do not pass the first interview are the ones who get the obligatory “thank you for your time” letter, and the rest of the candidates move on to the second round. It is for this reason that making a great impression, especially during the first interview, is so important. Focus on a few of your greatest strengths — ones that would be looked upon favorably by the company — and emphasize them throughout the interview.

Build on the First Impression

Let the rules of the first few moments of the interview follow you into the interviewer's office as well. Always maintain strong eye contact with the interviewer. Be attentive and listen carefully to everything he says. Answer questions with brief but complete answers, and provide evidence for the answers you give. If you claim to be a loyal employee, talk about a situation in which you've proven this. Highlight some of your greatest achievements, both personal and professional.

Telling stories about past experiences is one of the best ways to leave an impression; an interviewer is more likely to remember a story that you told than an answer you gave, so be sure to cite evidence when you can.