Job interviewing never seems to get easier - even when you have gone on more interviews than you can count. You are always meeting new people, and having to sell yourself and your skills. Plus you want to stay upbeat and enthusiastic throughout each interview.

This being said, there are ways to make a job interview much less stressful.

Invest some time prior to the interview in getting ready, and it will be much easier to handle. The key to effective interviewing is to project confidence, stay positive, and be able to share examples of your workplace skills and your qualifications for the job.

With some advance preparation, you will be able to nail the interview and showcase the experience that makes you the ideal candidate for the company's next new employee. Consider these 7 interview tips for a successful experience.

1. Practice and Prepare

Practice your responses to the typical job interview questions and answers most employers ask. Think of concrete examples you can use to highlight your skills. The easiest way to do this is to make a list of the job requirements, and match them to your experience. Providing evidence of your successes is a great way to promote your candidacy.

Also, make sure you have a list of your own questions to ask the employer. This confirms your genuine interest in the position.

2. Research the Company 

Do your homework about the employer and the industry so you are ready for the interview question, "What do you know about this company?" Try to relate what you have learned about the company when answering questions. Know the interviewer's name, and use it during the job interview. If you are not sure of the name, call and ask prior to the interview. Building rapport and making a personal connection with your interviewer can up your chances of getting hired. People tend to hire candidates they like, and who seem to be a good fit for the company culture.

3. Get Ready In Advance

Don't wait until the last minute to pick out an interview outfit, print extra copies of your resume, or find a notepad and pen. Have one good interview outfit ready so you can interview on short notice without having to worry about what to wear. When you have an interview lined up, get everything ready the night before. Make sure your interview attire is neat, tidy and appropriate for the type of firm you are interviewing with. Bring a nice portfolio with extra copies of your resume. Include a pen and paper for note taking.

4. Be On Time (This Means Early)

Be on time for the interview – ideally five to ten minutes early. If need be, drive to the interview location ahead of time so you know exactly where you are going and how long it will take to get there. Give yourself a few extra minutes to visit the restroom, check your outfit, and calm your nerves.

5. Try to Stay Calm

During the job interview, try to relax and stay as calm as possible - think of it as a casual conversation with an individual you have just met. Remember that your body language says as much about you as your answers to the questions. Proper preparation will allow you to exude confidence. Take a moment to regroup if you need it. Maintain eye contact with the interviewer. Listen to the entire question (active listening) before you answer.

6. Show What You Know

Try to relate what you know about the company when answering questions.  When discussing your career accomplishments, match them to what the company is looking for. Use examples from your research when answering questions such as, “I noticed your customer satisfaction ratings improved dramatically when you implemented a new software system last year. I am well versed in the latest technologies from my experience with developing software at ABC, and appreciate a company who strives to be a leader in its industry.” Take the time to make a match between your expertise and the company's requirements, and sell yourself to the interviewer.

7. Follow Up

Always follow up with a thank-you note reiterating your interest in the position. You can also include any details you may have forgotten to mention during your interview. If you interview with multiple people, send each person a personal note. Send your thank-you note (email is fine) within 24 hours of your interview.