Interview Don'tsSome interview pitfalls to avoid:

1. Don't arrive at the interview late.

2. Don't over or under dress or dress inappropriately

for the position. First impressions do count and you

want to be dressed to show that you fit into the

desired role.

3. Don't wear strong perfume.

4. Don't forget to take with you extra clean copies

of your CV as well as a notebook and pen with which to

take notes.

5. Don't forget to shake the hand of the Interviewer

firmly - a limp or sweaty handshake will not be looked

on favorably.

6. Don't chew gum, smoke, eat or drink at the

Interview.

7. Don't act distracted. Look the Interviewer

straight in the eye and give him your full and

undivided attention.

8. Don't let your body language send the wrong

messages. Be aware of the nonverbal cues you are

sending out! Sit upright and straight in the chair

facing the employer and smile. Lean forward

occasionally to express interest. Avoid crossing your

arms or legs in front of you (suggests defensiveness), slouching in the

chair (suggests sloppiness and lack of energy), leaning too far back

(may be interpreted as being overly familiar and disrespectful),

talking to the floor (lack of confidence) or flirting.

9. Don't refer to the Interviewer by his first name

unless he specifically asks you to do so.

10. Don't talk about your weaknesses or failings or

apologize for lack of education, experience, training

etc. Everyone has weaknesses; the Interview is the

time to showcase your enthusiasm and strengths.

11. Don't make derogatory comments about previous

bosses or peers. This is never acceptable and

particularly works against you in the Interview.

12. Don't act tired or jaded. Employers are

invariably looking for someone to energize, inspire

and uplift the team. Try to act enthusiastic and full

of energy and motivation.

13. Don't act unfocused and uncertain about what you

want. Whatever interview you're in - you want THAT

job.

14. Don't lie. Answer briefly, truthfully and

concisely.

15. Don't interrupt.

16. Avoid giving 'yes' or 'no' answers. Support your

answers with examples and be as factual and concise as

you can.

17. Don't talk too much. Focus your answers on the

particular question and on your related strengths.

Watch for signals that the Interviewer is losing

interest and stop talking immediately.

18. Don't talk about your personal life. You have not

been hired yet so keep it professional. This is no the

time to talk about failed love lives, a husband who

asked you to quit your job etc.!

19. Don't treat questions as jokes or try to be too

funny.

20. Don't ask about holidays, perks, hours or

compensation until you've actually been made a serious

offer.

21. Don't act overly confident or superior.

Ultimately, unless you are applying to the very senior

level positions, the Interviewer is looking for

someone who is manageable and will fit into the team.

22. Don't drop names of influential friends and

acquaintances unless you are passing a message or

someone has referred you. Be very careful and

professional when you mention names of clients and

make sure you are never giving out confidential

information.

23. Don't leave abruptly. Shake the Interviewer's

hand firmly, thank him for his time and ask what the

next step will be.