Associated Press

Interviews have been part of the job search routine for as long as anyone can remember. So it's worthwhile to do a checkup on your interview skills, says Amy Boyer, director of Placement at Gibbs College in Norwalk, Conn.

Here are a few tips:

ÂA telephone call is an interview, she says. The potential employer's first impression may be that phone call, so make sure you answer it in a cheerful, enthusiastic voice. Everyone in the house should know the importance of being professional on the telephone during the search period. Take stock of your answering machine message, caller ID boxes or if you have children answering the phone.

ÂBe prepared for anything. Don't be shocked by any form of interviewing you may encounter. That might be psychological screening, a lunch interview or a panel interview. Employers may use a variety of techniques to size you up.

ÂAsk questions. The interview is a two-way street, Boyer says, and you, too, want to find out if it's the right company to work for. Make a list of questions about the position, its duties and the company in general, and work these into your conversation during the interview.

ÂUse your network. Many great positions aren't advertised, so get your friends, family and associates to be on the lookout for opportunities for you.

ÂResearch. Find out as much as you can about the company before you go for the interview. The Internet is one source, as are the company's Web site and annual report.

ÂBe realistic about salary. Research again, to find out what the current market will bear for your skills. Keep in mind that while you may have made great money at the dot.com, other companies may value your skills at a different level. And remember to consider the whole compensation package, not just the take-home pay.

ÂThank you! Make sure the interviewer knows you appreciate the time he or she took with you at the meeting by sending an immediate thank-you message. This also is your opportunity to stress again why you want the job and to answer any objections you think the company might have about hiring you. Do this by e-mail or fax, with a hard copy by regular mail, since many companies make their choices quickly.

ÂShow interest. You could lose your chance at the job, regardless of your skills, because you didn't express your real interest.

ÂFollow up. If the employer says you should hear something by a particular date and you don't hear from them, follow up. Many times a decision will be postponed by circumstances, but you won't know if you don't ask.