So you finally snagged the coveted job interview. But how do you get the job?

A job interview can be scary if you don’t know what to expect. But with the right preparation and coaching you’ll be moving into your new desk in no time at all.

“Every company is looking for the right match,” said Eva Gabbe, the Career Center’s program manager.Do your homework

If you want to make that company think you’re the perfect match, you better do some research.

Gabbe said knowing about the company is critical to a potential employee. Company Web sites and annual reports can provide valuable information. It also doesn’t hurt to familiarize yourself with a product line or specific position requirements. Punctuality

On the day of the interview, punctuality is a very good idea. Gabbe recommends arriving 20 minutes early to allow for traffic and locating the office. Getting there early also allows for some relaxation time as well as enough time to double check the essentials, particularly your resume.

Also, make sure you bring extra resumes and a visual sample of your work.First impressions are key

When the recruiter appears, make a positive first impression.”A strong firm handshake and good eye contact are critical,” Gabbe said.

Studies have suggested that 65 percent of communication is non-verbal. So try to keep the annoying personal ticks under wraps.

The interview will most likely start with a small talk session. It may be tempting to just smile and nod your way through it, but it won’t look good for you.

“Be involved in the conversation. It’s not just a one-way street,” Gabbe said.

Then the interviewer may review your resume. Make sure to turn around any negative aspects, like lack of experience or low grade point average. Emphasize your positive qualities.

If your hands are starting to sweat right now, you probably didn’t practice enough.

Gabbe recommends practicing on friends and family with mock interviews, that way the real ones won’t be so nerve-wracking. “The more practice in interviewing, the better,” she said.Smile

The stress of it all may make you tense up, so let a smile loose and don’t be afraid to show your enthusiasm. Gabbe said that some employers have complained to her that students aren’t enthusiastic enough.

At this point, the interviewer may shoot some questions at you. These will relate to your education, work experience, personal life, and the company. Think of what hobbies, goals, and success stories you’d like to highlight for the employer and use them to answer these questions. If you can’t think of an answer right away take your time.

Any answer is better than, “I don’t know.”Ask questions

You should have some inquiries of your own. When the recruiter asks if you have any questions, Gabbe suggests you ask 3-4 questions to show you’re serious about the job. This is also a time when you can determine if the job is right for you.

But never ask about benefits or salary.

The interview is over when the recruiter stands up. Shake hands again and thank the interviewer for her time and consideration for the position.

Ask about the next step in the process and whether you should call back or wait to hear from the recruiter.

“But if you don’t ask you’re left in limbo,” Gabbe said.

And we all know what it’s like waiting to hear if you got the job. While it’s probably too soon to pick out the font for your business cards, remaining positive about your chance to get hired is good. And if they turn you down, don’t let it get to you. There’s plenty of other fish in the corporate sea.