TCMI in Houston,TX outlines the top 25 interview knockouts TCMI, an executive career marketing and management firm based in Houston, Texas, outlines specific areas that frequently lead to rejection in interviews. It is essential for all jobseekers to be completely prepared for each interview. Over the years of assisting its Houston clientele, TCMI has assembled a list of the top 25 interview knockouts: TCMI in Houston TX

1. Presenting a poor personal appearance.
2. Being overbearing, over-aggressive, "know-it-all."
3. Displaying an inability to express thoughts: poor voice, diction, grammar.
4. Showing a lack of career planning, no focus, no objective.
5. Acting passive or indifferent, no purpose.
6. Lacking confident attitude, too nervous, ill-at-ease.
7. Making excuses; being evasive about unfavorable factors in your record.
8. Condemning a past employer.
9. Making poor eye contact.
10. Giving a limp, fishy handshake.
11. Showing no interest in the company; no prior research about the company or industry.
12. Being late for the interview.
13. Asking about pay and money too soon and/or too often.
14. Showing lack of courtesy, being ill-mannered.
15. Being cynical, pessimistic, contemptuous.
16. Engaging in name dropping, emphasizing "who you know."
17. Being intolerant, showing strong prejudices.
18. Smoking or chewing gum.
19. Complaining.
20. Failing to express appreciation for the interviewer's time.
21. Talking about personal problems and/or financial needs.
22. Ending with an inappropriate and presumptuous closing such as: "When can I start?"
23. Wearing heavy perfume, cologne, shaving lotion: smelling of smoke.
24. Appearing self-centered by asking questions relevant to YOUR needs, rather than the employer's needs.
25. Offering only short answers to questions appearing to lack substance, interest, and enthusiasm.

According to TCMI in Houston TX, focusing on not committing these interview knockouts will help you present yourself in a positive manner to the interviewer. These key interviewing skills can help you achieve a more rewarding career with long term satisfaction and success.