A job interview may seem pretty standard- you go, you shake hands, you smile, you answer questions and you leave. However, there are so many different mistakes you can make in that short period of time that can cost you a second interview or a position. When you are going through a career transition, it is often hard to remember the proper interview etiquette. That’s why we’ve addressed some of the most common mistakes in the interview process so you know what NOT to do. Sometimes the easiest way to the top is knowing which pitfalls to avoid on the way.

1. Winging it: even the smoothest talker should always practice for a job interview. You need to do the research and practice your questions and answers to avoid stuttering and stammering like a fool. Furthermore, the more you practice, the more confident you will be. This will show through during the interview.

2. Arriving late: there are so many things that can mess up your trip to the interview- traffic, missed bus, slept late. Plan for these things. Get up extra early and get to the interview early. Even if you have to sit around in your car for 15 minutes, this is better than strolling in 15 minutes late.

3. Giving the wrong answers: sometimes your answers simply are not good enough. This usually happens when your skills/experience/strengths/etc are not directly connected to the position. Many people will have a set speech in all interviews; however, if your skills are not catered to that specific position and interview, then this will come off as unprepared.

4. Bad mouthing past employers: it’s easy to say that the reason you quit is because your boss is a jerk, or that you are currently looking into a career change because you hated the people you worked with, but this is not a good answer. It will reflect poorly on your personal and communication skills.

5. Asking the wrong questions: when the interview is nearing the end, your interviewer will most likely ask if you have additional questions. This does not mean you should ask about holidays, compensation and benefits. These will be addressed later on if they have not already been discussed. Instead, focus on questions about the position.

6. Dressing inappropriately: an interview is not a trip to the pub, nor is it a black tie event. You need to dress in business clothes. This includes suits, ties, black polished shoes, pencil skirts, blouses and blazers. Dress conservatively and limit your makeup and jewelry. Make sure you are also well groomed and clean shaven.

7. Not reacting: an interview is more than just question and answer time. You need to connect to your interviewer and prove that there is a spark, a personality behind the words. Make eye contact, smile, use your hands, concentrate on your mannerisms and show enthusiasm. After all, no one wants to hire a robot, even if he has all the right answers. You need to make your presence known.