Having hired hundreds of people over the last 25 years I can tell you without hesitation that the "First Impression" is one of the most important things to influence me on a particular candidate.
http://www.squidoo.com/lensmaster/workshop/Pimp-My-Interviewmodule119340251.) Your appearance counts. Clean- neat-appropriate clothing. Dress for the job you want.2.) Your clothes and accessories are to be classic and conservative...if in doubt, leave it out3.) Maintain eye contact and smile...no one likes a sad sack4.) Non-verbal communication is 80-90% of communication. Pay attention to your body language5.) Your handshake can make or break a meeting....firm and strong...women too!6.) Vocabulary is important as well...use powerful verbs to describe your accomplishments and to7.) Maintain a strong voice that conveys confidence and strengthanswer all questions.Interviewing can be a full time job but you can accelerate your job search by practicing these steps. Try and practice impressions with a spouse or friend. worst case take a highly self critical eye and practice in front of a mirror.