What Not to do at a Job Interview

There are certain things you can do at job interviews that can be deal breakers. In order to make a lasting first first impression and improve your chances of landing the job, here is a comprehensive list of what not to do at a job interview.

1. Dress like a hobo. Shocker. Career coach Jennifer Armitstead once shared a story about the fellow who showed up wearing a red graphic tee, cargo pants, and grubby tennis shoes for an interview he was instructed to wear a suit to. Needless to say, he didn’t land the job. Call in advance to see what the company dress code is and dress accordingly. A safe bet for men is to wear a collared shirt with a tie and nice pants. For ladies, nice pants or skirt and a collared shirt or nice blouse. Remember, avoid cleavage and too-tight clothes! (For more detailed tips, check out What to Wear to a Job Interview.)
2. Answer your cell phone during an interview. It’s best to leave your cell phone outside, turn your cell phone off, or have it on silent in your pocket or purse. In a job interview, you want to give it 100%. Don’t let yourself get distracted.
3. Avoid eye contact. Averting your eyes can make it seem like you’re hiding something. Maintaining eye contact 70% of the time is ideal, instilling trust and rapport and conveying confidence.
4. Wear excessive perfume/cologne. You never know when the person you’re interviewing with may be allergic.
5. Ask for food from the break room. This actually happened! In case you get hungry with all the job hunting, keep a snack in your bag or car for after the interview.
6. Slam your last boss. Even if things didn’t end on a positive note, be diplomatic.
7. Chew gum. If you want fresh breath, pop an Altoid before you go inside. Chewing gum and blowing bubbles is distracting.
8. Ask the secretary out on a date. Making a negative impression on receptionists (often known as gatekeepers) can be damaging to your chances for the job. Besides, it’s not typically a good idea to date people at the office!
9. Act desperate. We get it, it’s a tough job market out there and landing a job interview is rare. But don’t make the mistake of coming off as desperate (even if you are). Practice your poker face, play it cool, put your best foot forward, and send a thank you card after the interview.
10. Show up late. Plan to be there ten minutes early so you can compensate for construction or detours on the way. Companies care about punctuality.