Despite the tough job market, you’ve made it to the most important interview of your life. You want to impress the interviewer with your poise and self-confidence, as well as your qualifications.

Here are 10 Simple Steps to a Successful Interview:

1. Arrive on time
2. Introduce yourself in a courteous manner
3. Read company materials while you wait
4. Have a firm handshake
5. Listen
6. Use body language to show interest
7. Smile, nod, and give nonverbal feedback to the interviewer
8. Ask about the next step in the process
9. Thank the interviewer
10. Write a thank you letter to anyone you have spoken to

A common pitfall in the interviews is “ small talk.” Invariably, small talk focuses on something personal to the applicant. The interviewer may think nothing of it. But the applicant legitimately may think it is relevant to the hiring decision since it was discussed during the interview. The personal information exchanged during small talk often is difficult to justify after the fact.

As in Life, the interview trial is full of little surprises and potentially embarrassing situations. You will get through them by dealing with them honestly, gracefully and with a sense of humor.

Remember, interviewers were once on your side of the desk, too!