As we near the end of 2010, the job market still remains a tough one. With more candidates after the same job, it can take more interviews to get a job offer. Therefore learning how to prepare better for a job interview is a crucial skill.

1. Know your CV - A common reason employers give for not hiring candidates is the inability of candidates to fully explain the contents of their CV. Make sure you know what sets you apart from other candidates and be specific about what you've done that has made you successful. Know your background without having to refer to your CV.

2. Understand the job description - Study the job description. It will give you an insight into what the job entails and lists the skills a company is looking for in a candidate. Review your skills, education, experience and achievements. Write out a T graph and on one side list the jobs requirements and on the other map your skills, experience and achievements to them.

3. Research the company - Employers expect you to be well-informed about the company, its products and services and the industry as a whole. Look at the company’s website, their mission, news releases and product releases. Look for indications of where the company is going and what issues the company and industry are having.

4. Prepare responses - While it’s important to practice your answers, try not to sound too rehearsed. When you are practicing, write the answers in bullet points which will stop you memorising information word-for-word.

5. Hire an interview coach - Studies have proven that by using an interview coach you can get a job up to 45% quicker. I've personally coached hundreds of job seekers on how to improve their interviewing skills and my clients have been offered jobs with top companies.

6. Practice on a friend - It is really useful to rehearse so get a friend to practice interviewing you. Ask them for feedback on your answers and also ask them to watch your body language carefully.

7. Improve your communication skills - In interviews, it’s important for you to be able to communicate your skills to potential employers in an impactful manner. Inject energy into your voice as you relate your successes using action oriented words.

8. Control your nerves - Take two deep breaths before you start, this will help you to slow down when you start to speak and create a more confident first impression. Pausing also gives you time to collect your thoughts and you’ll be less likely to lose track of what you are saying.

9. Think about your body language - The best way to be aware of your interview body language is to practice in front of a mirror. This way you can be confident that you are sending the right message in your job interview. Also pay attention to the interviewer's body language. You ideally want the interviewer to be doing the same things you are like maintaining eye contact, nodding, smiling and leaning forward.

10. Prepare questions to ask - Prepare at least three questions to ask the interviewer. Ask anything relating to the team and department e.g. what is the structure of the team? Questions relating to the job e.g. what are the day to day responsibilities of the job? And anything relating to the company e.g. what are the company’s plans for the future?