If you really think about your responses to these questions, you will be well prepared for the challenge of the interview.

Research confirms that job applicants who take the time to find out something about the employer are more likely to get the job. It's very impressive to an employer that you're interested in their business and have thought about how you can contribute to its success.

Where can you find out about a business! Larger corporations produce annual reports and often have a public affairs or communications department which gives out information about the company and its programs, services, financial situation, and contributions to the community. The same is true of government departments. Phone and ask for this information or drop by to pick it up.

For information on smaller businesses, try contacting the appropriate chamber of commerce. News stories can be very useful in familiarizing yourself with an organization. The reference department of your public library will be a good resource.

Do you know someone who works at the company! They can be a very valuable source of information. Receptionists and secretaries also can be very helpful in giving information and names of people who could tell you more about the company and its needs.

Some astute interviewers actually ask job applicants: "What have you done to prepare yourself for this interview?" The answer will reveal a great deal about an applicant's interest and motivation, planning and research skills, communications and people skills, organizational abilities, determination and resourcefulness. The more you know about the organization, the better you can prepare and the more confident you will feel going into the interview.