Will you get the job?

You have a one in five chance, according to a recent survey.

Before making a final hiring decision, chief financial officers interview an average of five applicants, results from a 2001 Accountemps survey reveal. More than 1,400 CFOs who work for U.S. companies with more than 20 employees responded to the survey.

These CFOs were asked, "On average, how many candidates are interviewed for an opening in your accounting department before the position is filled?" The mean response was five.

"Companies may receive dozens of resumes for open positions, from which they must narrow the field to a few qualified candidates who will be called for interviews," Accountemps Chairman Max Messmer said. "Typically, these finalists are all strong contenders for the position."

"To set themselves apart, job seekers must focus as much or more on making a favorable impression during the interview as they do in preparing their resumes," Messmer said. He offers the following tips:

• Avoid rushing the process — Take your time when you enter the office and greet the hiring manager with a warm smile and a handshake. Wait for an invitation before taking a seat.

• Let the 'real you' shine through — Don't be afraid to be yourself. Most employers like to come away from an interview with at least a general sense of your personality.

• Tone down the charm — Don't overdo a good thing. If you focus too much on winning the interviewer over, you may appear insincere.

• Keep it simple — Avoid lengthy replies to questions. Your responses should be brief, clear and to the point. Instead of trying to fill the silence, let the interviewer ask the next question.

• Show them how good you are — If things go well, volunteer to do something (solve a problem, write a report, work a day for free) that will demonstrate your interest and initiative and let the interviewer know you have what it takes to do the job.