Remember: None of this is carved in stone. You could rub your nose simply because it itches and the interviewer might be stretching. But many seemingly innocuous gestures can reveal inner thoughts. You can solve the problem by avoiding problematic gestures.

The interviewer is looking for confidence. Arrogance is the opposite of confidence and underscores a crippling lack of self-confidence.

At the interview, be sure to grasp the interviewer’s hand firmly and look him straight in the eye when introduced. At the conclusion of the discussion, always thank the interviewer for taking the time to review your resume and discuss job prospects. Don’t sit down before the interviewer grabs a seat and never throw yourself into the chair like a teenager preparing to go vegetable while playing video games.

Speak directly to the person who asks the question. If there are several people in the interview, glance briefly at the others and return to the questioner before ending your response. There’s likely to be a table or desk between you and the interviewer. This establishes what many call “personal space.” If there’s no table or desk, don’t get any closer than 18 inches and two or three feet is about right for most people.

Always make eye contact. Cock your head slightly to catch questions. This shows interest and suggests that you’ll give a thoughtful response.

If the interviewer takes a phone call, don’t get upset. Quietly indicate that you’re willing to leave the room. If the interviewer shakes his head, busy yourself with papers in your briefcase. Restart the conversation by saying, “To return to your question…”

Always keep your comments on a professional level. Junk the jargon, kill all computer buzzwords and avoid sports metaphors on pain of death. Never drop “f-bombs” like a junior high school kid trying out naughty language.

Finding the right job takes time and is highly competitive. Don’t let basic interviewing mistakes knock you out of consideration.

“University students have a long history of success,” Rayman says. “Most haven’t experienced failure, but don’t realize how challenging finding a job will be. Students might go through ten or even 20 interviews before receiving an offer. Job hunting requires resilience.”

The Web sites of major brokerage houses and banks offer solid financial tips to grads, including T. Rowe Price (TROW), Merrill Lynch (MER), JP Morgan Chase (JPM), Wells Fargo Bank (WFC) and Wachovia (WB).

Page 1 | 2 | Last