1. The Company Look.

Every company has its own dress code. Realize it exists and, if you have no idea how that type of company dresses, either pop round and observe in the foyer or ring up and ask the receptionist – or your job agency.

2. Dress as if.

A good rule of thumb is to dress as if you were going for an interview for the job level above yours (if one exists). In other words dress up to the job you aspire you, not like the more junior members of staff.

3. Suit yourself.

Unless you are interviewing at a "creative" type place, a clean, pressed, classic suit in basic solids (beige, black, navy or grey) is always acceptable.

4. Shoes and handbags and jewellery.

All these need to be PLAIN, dark leather, fairly new and clean. It’s best for shoes to be low-heeled. If in doubt, wear no jewellery at all, except a watch: You will never be marked down for not wearing jewellery but you might be rejected if you do. Where the interviewer has to choose from several equally qualified applicants, the smallest "black mark" will serve as good reason for rejection.

5. For women only – hair and makeup.

Simple style, neat (no roots showing!) brushed hair. Spend the money for a good haircut. A little lipstick (in a low-key color) is usually well received but not necessary unless you are going for a fashion-related job. Make sure any other makeup is very "quiet".

6. For men only – make sure everything is tucked in neatly, your tie is discreet, and nothing is askew.

There is always time to ask questions of the interviewers. One key questions is "What do you understand to be the key challenges and opportunities of this position?" This shows interest. It is also an opportunity to glean the interviewer's keywords, and the problems which are to be solved by hiring for this position.

7. Food and drink.

No-no’s, even if offered by the interviewer. Make sure you not only arrive early but also well fed and watered.

8. Be early.

You NEVER want to be late. It’s better to be thirty minutes early than three minutes late – every impression counts. No excuses are acceptable. Besides, waiting in the reception room gives you a great opportunity to spy. It’s usually where the company puts its best foot forward. If the area is shabby or haphazardly run, that says something about the company.

Also notice how people look and dress. If you don’t see people whose style you admire, do you think you’d be happy working with them? These things may sound trivial, but they are bona fide clues to the company culture. Make sure to visit the bathroom, whether you need to or not – another clue.

9. Ask the right questions.

Don’t ask too much about perks, although it is ok to ask once about "fringe benefits" but not as the first question! Some of the right things to ask, if these issues haven’t surfaced, are: Is there a written job description listing the responsibilities? (if not, ask for a verbal run down) What are the most important things you’d want me to accomplish in the first six months? Whom would I report to? How long has the position been open? May I ask who held it before? Is he or she still with the company? If not, what happened? When do you expect to conclude the search?

10. Be understated

If you have boned up on the organization, subtly show off your knowledge without sounding like a show-off.