Everyone knows the economy is junk right now and people are struggling to keep their jobs. With people being laid off left and right, it’s safe to say that there isn’t much hiring going on. Should you be lucky enough be to receiving an interview in these downward times, there are few horrendous mistakes you need to avoid making when you get the call. Make the best of this opportunity; you may not receive another one for a while.

The Alarm Clock “Didn’t Go Off” (Okay, really you just pressed the snooze button one too many times…)

Be on time! It doesn’t get any simpler, really. If you have issues making appointments, leave way earlier than necessary. Competition is thick and any company you want to be working for isn’t going to accept a lack of punctuality, whatever your reasons. There are ten other people with your qualifications who made it on time, and likely ten minutes early.

Limp is Unattractive. Be Firm.

This is another simple part of a job interview that must be mastered. We all know what the characteristics of a respectable handshake are. Implement them and don’t leave your prospective boss cringing in pain or in pity of your flaccidity.

Spent a Little (or a lot) of Time Behind Bars or Just Hanging on the Couch?

Many people possess serious gaps in their work history, and for many reasons. If you went to prison for 3 years because you used your chemistry degree to master the art of methamphetamine manufacturing, you should probably be prepared with an alternate explanation of your disappearance from the workforce. Don’t worry, though. Respectable companies do employ felons.

Don’t Go for Hobo-Chic. Nobody Wants to Hire a Shlemiel.

Don’t know what to wear? Go scope the place out and see what the employees are wearing and do your best to step it up a notch. This doesn’t mean showing up in a tuxedo. That’ll get you removed from the consideration pile just as quickly as showing up in flannel and a straw hat.

Save Your Trash Talk Side for the Bar

This means no hitting on the secretary or mail carrier, don’t put your feet up on the waiting room table, don’t whine about cold coffee and don’t complain about how long you’ve been sitting there waiting to be seen. Sit tight, shut-up and pretend you’re visiting potential in-laws; everyone is watching!