As the second of three steps (following the resume) in the job search cycle, the interview process is definitely the most critical step as this is where the applicant can make or break the opportunity for employment. Keeping in mind that the company has reviewed the resume and requested the interview, the candidate has made some definite progress.By attending the interview, the candidate can then take advantage of the chance to “sell” one’s self and skill sets to the company.

Although the company does retain more control at this early stage of the search, the candidate can be confident (and act confident, too!) that their talents match the hiring criteria based on their resume and the company’s job description, or they would never be granted the interview. Gaining the interview is a necessary step in the cycle…you will never be hired without a face-to-face meeting with a person of responsibility or hiring manager.