While the resume opened the door to you being considered a candidate for the position, the interview is where you “sell yourself.” This is your opportunity to respond to questions about how your skill set and motivation/interests are a good match.

Remember, the interviewer needs to be convinced that you possess the proper background (ability) to do the job and that you have the commensurate level of interest (motivation) to perform well in the position because of your interests in this precise type of work.

The interviewer will determine that you are a fit to the culture by the manner in which you respond to the questions they ask along with those that you choose to ask of them.

Preparing through practicing your answers to their questions and designing your questions based on what you need to know demonstrates that you are serious about their unique role in their company. It goes a long way to placing you on the list of serious contenders.