During our lifetimes, there has to be at least one time when we gave an interview. It’s a process where a company wants to hire a professional to fill in a job requirement, and their way of getting to know the candidate is through an interview.

Different companies conduct interviews in a variety of ways. While some are laid back and open to how the candidate wants to express himself/herself, there are other organizations that can be strict about their interviewing procedures from the get go.

In case you’re that individual who really wants to get into a company but is afraid that something might go wrong, or if this is going to be your first interview going in, use these 5 Surefire Ways To Ace An Interview Every Time:

1. Research – One of the first requirements to acing an interview is to prepare. Just going in and taking things as they come will not take you far. You will need to find out about the company first – things like their Vision Statement, the company website, history of the company, major landmarks, press coverage and anything that you can get your hands on. Not only will this prepare you for the type of interview you are going to be faced with, but when you show knowledge about the company you plan on working for, you will definitely impress the suits across the table.
2. Be Passionate – True, the majority of the working class just wants to earn money and works for survival. Ultimately, everyone knows that. But don’t make it about the job or the salary hike you might earn. Show a genuine interest or passion for what you are doing. For example, if you plan on getting into a career that entails writing or designing, show some passion towards what you are doing. Anyone would love to add an enthusiastic person to their payroll.
3. Appearance – Another important key to ace an interview is how you appear. Whether you are applying to a tattoo parlor or as CEO of a multinational company, first impressions are the biggest impressions. Be crisp with what you wear and look like you are in it to win it, not like you just rolled out of bed and need to give this interview because you have to. The way you dress says a lot about who you are, so make sure that you convey a moral employee who will be a benefit to the company.
4. Knowledge – This isn’t just about textbook knowledge. We are talking about knowledge in general. For example, if you want to get into the finance sector, do you know anything about how it works? It’s sub-sectors? Fields? If there is any information you can gather about that particular industry, make sure you retain it and impress your interviewers with this knowledge. Also, you are bound to be asked that same inane question: “Why do you think we should hire you?” Be prepared with a great answer that is honest and to the point. If you believe you will be an asset to the company, make sure that you let them know about it!
5. Ask Questions – Just as you are being put on the spot with your potential employer’s questions, feel free to ask them questions yourself. It won’t show you are arrogant (unless you pose some arrogant questions), rather it will make you seem that you are interested in what is going on and that you are an assertive human being. Asking questions will also open the way for them to understand you better and meet your demands as well.

Check out this comprehensive article on advice given by some of the experts.