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In a down economy, there are less jobs and more competition. Many employers are flooded with resumes and applications, and with so many qualified candidates in the running, it’s the small details that will help you shine a little brighter than the rest.

On Maui, the relaxed lifestyle we cherish can backfire if it transcends into a job interview.

“I’ve had countless applicants show up in flip-flops and sand on their feet,” said one Pä‘ia restaurant owner. “They obviously came straight from the beach for the interview, and they look careless and sloppy. I’m not impressed.”

Even if you are a perfectly qualified applicant with an impressive, flawlessly-written resume and stellar references, how you present yourself can mean the difference between “you’re hired” and “we’ll get back to you.” And in this increasingly competitive job market, impressing a prospective employer—in a good way—can be the key to securing the job of your dreams.

You know the adage, “You never get a second chance to make a first impression?” Well, it’s the truth. According to Maui County Economic Development Coordinator Deidre Tegarden, job-seekers need to be aware of a few simple “dos” and don’ts” during their job search.

“Don’t wear shorts, tank tops, rubber slippers, mini skirts, overly high heels, too much perfume or cologne, chew gum or swear,” she said. “Dress appropriately, and make sure you are properly groomed with hair in place, teeth brushed, clothes pressed and shoes polished.” Aloha attire is perfectly acceptable, said Tegarden, but job-seekers should look professional—and dress for success.

And it’s not just about image. Communication, both verbal and nonverbal, also plays a significant role in dazzling prospective employers. “Practice your handshake [and] maintain eye contact,” said Tegarden.

Most importantly, applicants must show up on time. “Arrive to your interview five minutes early,” she said. “Bring two extra copies of your resume and letters of reference… make sure you have proofed your resume before printing it out. There should be no typos.”

In addition, job-seekers should be fully prepared for the interview, which may require doing some homework. “Research the company you are applying to work for before you go on the interview,” said Tegarden. “And know a little bit about the job you are applying for.”

Anticipate that prospective employers will ask you questions about yourself, the job and the company, she said. It is best to know the answers to these questions ahead of time, including the dreaded, “Why should I hire you?” and “What are your greatest strengths and weaknesses?” Similarly, you should have questions prepared for your prospective employer.

“Practice asking three questions before you go into the interview, said Tegarden. “You can ask the interviewer how long he or she has been with the company or agency, or what they expect from their team members. You can also ask when the position will be filled or why the last person left.”

And of course, it is important to smile and show some enthusiasm. “With all of these things in mind, you can knock it out of the park,” she said.

But before you put your plan in motion, it may be best to do some internal housekeeping first. Susan Kim, a life coach, professional trainer and owner of Susan Kim Coaching, reminds job-seekers to evaluate their needs before filling out a job application.

“It’s important to be clear about what you want and need in a career,” she said. “If you’re looking for a [career] change, now is a great opportunity to change your mindset and try something new.” Kim said the down economy has been a catalyst to making positive change for many of her clients. “I’ve seen a lot of people switch to a new career, and they couldn’t be happier.”

In a job search, Kim recommends understanding your personal strengths and weaknesses and how they impact your short- and long-term career goals. In addition, she said job-seekers should be aware of the organizational culture of the company they are applying to work for. “It’s so important to know the character of a company,” Kim said. “Ask questions during the interview to determine the organizational culture.”

Kim also encourages job-seekers to try not to feel defeated if they don’t get the job. “Don’t be attached to the results,” she said. “Stay positive and keep trying.”

Both Tegarden and Kim agree that with the right tools and a positive outlook, you can land the job of your dreams.

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