The New England Human Resource Network compiled the following list of interview mistakes:

BEING UNPREPARED

• Lacking knowledge of what the company does, company history, values, mission, industry  
• Being unsure of what the job and responsibilities are

LACKING INTEREST / ENTHUSIASM

• Asking no questions
• Being unable to communicate the reason for having an interest in the job

INAPPROPRIATE DRESS

• Dressing too casually
• Wearing too much perfume, cologne, or makeup
• Rule of Thumb:  Always, always, always wear conservative business attire

POOR BODY LANGUAGE

• No eye contact / facial expressions
• Leaning on chair / desk / table
• Fidgeting
• Weak handshake

LACK OF RESUME KNOWLEDGE

• Inability to articulate accomplishments / provide specific examples
• Overstated / incorrect work history

LACK OF PUNCTUALITY

• Being late without reason
• Arriving too early
• Rule of Thumb:  Arrive 10 - 15 minutes before scheduled interview time

UNPROFESSIONAL

• Talking negatively about past company / manager / employees
• Chewing gum
• Using inappropriate language

RAMBLING ANSWERS

• Talking so much that the question is not answered
• Bragging / displaying arrogance rather than confidence
• Rule of Thumb:  Keep answers concise - 2-3 minutes

RINGING CELL PHONES

• Turn cell phone off before the interview!