A job interview is your opportunity to make an excellent impression on a potential employer. If you want to land a job quickly, then you will need to be professional and prepared for your interview. Many people make easily avoidable mistakes during their interview that can cost them employment. To help you, we have compiled a list of things you should never do in a job interview. Avoid these mistakes and you can greatly increase your chances of beating out the competition and landing the job.

1. Show up late

An employer expects you to show up on-time to work, and an interview is your first opportunity to show that you are capable and responsible enough to do so. Many employers will still go through with the interview if someone shows up late, but the candidate will be put at the bottom of the list-- or even not considered because of their tardiness.

Give yourself extra time in case the bus or subway is delayed. Plan to arrive about 15 minutes early to give yourself some extra padding in case something goes wrong. If you show up early, have a coffee nearby or wait outside until it is time to go into your interview.

2. Be unprepared

A job interview is an opportunity to market yourself to a potential employer. Make a list before your interview of skills you feel are relevant. These may be technical skills like any relevant certifications or specialized abilities. Or, you can list personal traits like a hard-working, timely, go-getter, and friendly.  You will need to customize qualities or skills to the specific job you are interviewing for, and this requires some thoughtful preparation. Make a list on your phone or take it with you in your bag to review before the interview. Showing up prepared will significantly impress the interviewer and can help you get hired more quickly.

3. Dress unprofessionally

Whether you are applying for work on a construction site or in an office as a receptionist, you want to look your best when you meet your potential employer for the first time. If you look inappropriate, it can translate as a lack of interest or professionalism. A fresh outfit, a shower, and shave (if relevant), and clothes that are appropriate for a work setting (think: pants and shirts with sleeves) are an excellent place to start.

Most importantly, wear something you feel comfortable and confident in. This may mean you skip the heels in favor of sensible flats. You do not want to be tugging at your clothes and feeling self-conscious, instead dress in a manner that is professional and lets your personality shine.

4. Look at your cell phone

We are all addicted to our cell phones these days, and it is hard not to check it constantly. If you are constantly looking at your phone, playing games or texting- you will appear distracted and uninterested. When you enter into an interview, put your cellphone in your bag or pocket on silent, and leave it there for the duration of the interview. Doing this will allow you to remain focused and interested in what the interviewer is saying, and shows dedication and eagerness on your part.

5. Say bad things about past employers

Kind of like a break-up, not every position you leave goes smoothly. Resist badmouthing former employees or workplaces. It is far more professional to remain cool, calm, and collected and to rise above whatever drama you left behind. Cite distance or poor management structure, but do not get into the nitty-gritty. Highlight the features of why you are interested in the job you are interviewing for instead.

6. Disclose too much personal information

It can be challenging to separate our own lives from work ones, but in an interview, the separation is crucial. Even if your child is at home with the stomach flu or your dishwasher overflowed this morning, leave it all outside when you enter the interview. Nothing else exists except what’s relevant to getting the job. That way, you remain in control and professional at all times.

7. Lie

It can be so tempting to lie in an interview, but it is not necessary. If you lack a specific skill and you lie about it, you are likely to get caught in the end. Simply state, you do not have that particular experience, but you have a great desire to learn. Cite times in the past when your determination led to gaining new skills. Putting a positive spin on it will allow you not to lie.

8. Forget to ask about the position

If you forget to ask about the position whether it be hours, tasks required, shift schedule, or anything else, it may show a lack of interest on your part. If this is a job you truly want, you will need to show the interviewer that you are considering the position carefully. Brainstorm a few questions before the interview to ensure you cover all your bases.

Interviews can be nerve wracking, but with these essential tips, you can shine and land the position quickly and easily.