By Dee Barizo

Few people look forward to job interviews. Some job seekers anticipate them as they would a dental procedure. Others would rather have a public speaking engagement or go skydiving. But preparing for a job interview and surviving the event can be a positive learning experience.

The moderately stressful, sometimes high stakes job interview is one of the best places to refine your interpersonal skills and test your ability to communicate under pressure. Perhaps more importantly, if you arrive adequately prepared, you can use an interview to gain knowledge about developments in your industry and make valuable professional contacts.

Keeping your composure in a job interview requires some planning and thought, but most job seekers find that their efforts pay off when they’re able to field an unexpected question. The following job interview tips will help you relax and stay focused before and during the big event.

1. Prepare for a job interview by researching the company and position. » Read more: Interviews: 6 Ways to Deal With Anxiety During a Job Interview