Most interviewers will tell you that a knowledgeable employee is a desirable employee. If you've done your homework and researched the company, position, and industry, you should have no problem demonstrating your knowledge to a potential employer.

At some point in the interview, it is likely that the interviewer will begin to tell you a bit more about the position and the company in general. If you have done your research, you should already know a lot of this information. Without sounding like a know-it-all, indicate your familiarity with this information. If your interviewer mentions a current happening in the company — perhaps a new product or a pending merger — you may want to try to engage in an intelligent conversation about this topic. This is a great way to build rapport with the interviewer and make a good impression.

Again, if you have done your research, it is likely that you will be able to discuss something that the interviewer mentions. Without interrupting or correcting her, try your best to tactfully mention your familiarity with the topic and hope it grows into a conversation between equals.

Emphasize Your Knowledge

There's no disputing the fact that a positive person is a likable person. Show the interviewer your optimism and ability to handle difficult situations with ease by remaining positive throughout the interview. Even when asked about the worst job you've ever had or the most difficult project you've ever worked on, be sure to emphasize the positive points of these experiences.

Think of all your experiences — bad and good — as learning experiences. Think about what you have learned from them, and use that information to further impress the interviewer. For example, instead of saying “I hated my position as a telemarketer because I was forced to bother people night and day,” think of that job as a learning experience. You could say, “I realized that cold calling wasn't my strong suit. Though I really enjoyed being able to interact with people, I decided that my talents could be better utilized in a face-to-face situation.” Even the most horrible job taught you some sort of lesson; figure out what it was and talk about it.

Downplay the Negative

It is always important to downplay your past negative experiences in the course of a job interview. Do be forewarned, however, that your resolve will be tested. Recruiters often ask candidates specifically about negative situations and difficult tasks they were asked to perform simply to see their reaction. Though it may be true that you hate your current boss, job, and company, you should never — under any circumstances — let the interviewer hear or see your bitterness.

Again, all experiences — even bad ones — have taught you a lesson. The best way to downplay a negative topic is to introduce the situation only briefly and focus the rest of your answer on the positive experiences that emerged from it. Keep the slanderous remarks or disparaging comments to yourself. The only thing such comments will convey to the interviewer is the possibility of a future attitude problem, which probably will not place you high on the final candidate list.