With so many others applying for the same job as you, how do you make yourself stand out in the interview, that you are the candidate that gets the callback?

The following tips will help you to cinch that all-important interview:

• Be prompt and have a firm handshake

When the hiring decision come down to two equally qualified candidates, a decision will be based on the little things, a firm hand shake, being prompt, a professional attitude.

• Dress for the interview

While a manufacturing interview does not require a suit, do dress to impress. Dress pants or khakis, a button down shirt tucked in and a belt. The assumption is that if you look neat and tidy, your work will also be neat and tidy.

• Be specific about your experience and what skills you have.

This is very important, especially in manufacturing. In manufacturing, experience is key. If you have experience for the exact job they are hiring for, that is good, but if you have a variety of experience, but less specific, you may still be a more valuable employee.

• Be enthusiastic and ask questions

Show them that you are truly interested in working for their company. Prepare some questions to ask, directly related to manufacturing, such as; “do you use lean manufacturing techniques?” or, “What is your safety record?” Remember to thank them for the interview.

Remember interviewers see numerous people with similar experience. Machine operators and assembly people are plentiful, so the decision on who to hire usually comes down to the details, which put some effort into the interview. The interview is your time to show them you are prepared, professional and that you are the employee that will go the extra mile.

Dress for Interview Success

Dressing to impress at your job interview is the most important thing you can do.  Your potential employer will make a decision about you on that alone.  You have 60 seconds to make a good first impression.  What you wear is vitally important to your job search.

In this respect, is conservative always better?  No, not always.  When dressing to impress at your job interview, you must first decide what your industry’s standard is.  Is it a conservative standard or does using some current flair help you?  In most situations a business suit is the most appropriate choice.

Men’s and women’s business suits should be solid color for first interviews.  Both should use a coordinating color shirt or blouse and matching shoes.  The shoes should be in good condition without worn heels and scuff marks.

Depending on the industry the shirt or blouse should be current and fashionable.  You can go bolder in retail or fashion merchandising industries and understated in industries that are more conservative.

You must have a full understanding of what the industry standard is.  Most often if there is a casual day at your potential employer’s office on the day of your interview, they will tell you that.  That does not mean that you should wear jeans.

Always dress better than you think you need to.  Be cautious with bright colors and hems.  You want them to remember you for your talent, not your clothes.  You only have one chance at a first impression, don’t blow it by dressing inappropriately.