My mom regularly threatened my siblings and me with cotillion. Weekly, it seemed, our manners would horrify her at the dinner table, and she would tell us she was going to sign us up for the dancing and etiquette class that’s so popular in the south.

Although this may not be a consoling thought as you prepare for an upcoming interview, there are concrete steps you can take to ensure you make a good first impression. Taking the time to prepare and practice your responses to common behavioral-based questions will increase your confidence and set you apart from the competition.