An opportunity for an interview is hard to come by, and you need to excel in all areas in order to get the job you want.

Below are a few interview bloopers you should avoid.

1. Poor Handshake

Your interview starts with a handshake that reflects half of your personality. If you deliver a poor handshake, it will be difficult for you to build rapport with your prospective employer.

If you shake with a limp hand that gives the impression of weakness, with the tips of your fingers showing a lack of ability to engage, then you will have already put yourself behind the 8-ball.

Your handshake should be full and firm.

2. Unmatched Communication Style

When you are asked to say something, make sure you communicate in the same style and on the same topic. Some candidates tend to divert from the topic at hand, which shows a lack of focus. Some candidates also have the tendency to talk too much during an interview.

This shows that you either lack confidence, or an inability to reach the center point of the conversation. It may also imply that you are lying.

The best way to avoid this mistake is to prepare for your interview by role playing.

3. Negative Comments about Previous Employers

Starting off by speaking on a negative note about your previous employer does not speak well of you. Even if you have any ill feelings, never express them.

This will show that some day you could develop the same feeling about your new employer. Respond positively if asked about your former employer, and share something good about the organization.

4. Bad Manners

The very first stage of your interview is when you meet the receptionist. Be polite and courteous as this carries a big impression. Never misbehave or be aggressive with the receptionist, as it is within her power to facilitate your interview positively or negatively before the interviewer even sees you.

During the interview session, sit properly and try to be a good listener. You should always listen to the interviewer first, and then answer accordingly. Never distract him or her by saying something before you are asked.

This shows lack of good manners. Similarly, asking about benefits, salary and vacation days will not create a good impression of you. You should wait until the interview is over, or until the interviewer broaches the subject.

5. Not Being Punctual

Some candidates tend to be late for interviews, while there are some who always arrive well ahead of time. The perfect time to reach the interview site is five minutes ahead of the scheduled time. Reaching too much before time will create an impression that you have too much time on your hands.

By showing this desperate attitude, you may lose your desirability. Your time is as precious as the interviewer’s.

Avoid the above mistakes and apply your interview skills. If you do this, you are almost sure to create a good impression on your prospective employer.

Tony Jacowski is a quality analyst for The MBA Journal. Aveta Solutions – Six Sigma Online ( http://www.sixsigmaonline.org ) offers online six sigma training and certification classes for lean six sigma, black belts, green belts, and yellow belts.

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