1. Poor attitude. Employers can afford to be self-centered, candidates cannot.     2. Appearance. First impressions are quickly made in the first three to five minutes.     3. Lack of research. Candidates should be fully prepared prior to the interview.     4. Too quiet. Asking questions shows your interest in the company and the position.     5. Not readily knowing the answers to interviewers' questions. Anticipate and rehearse answers to tough questions about your background.     6. Handling salary issues ineptly. Candidates often ask about salary and benefit packages too early and those who ask for too little undervalue themselves.     7. Lack of career direction. Job hunters who aren't clear about their career goals often can't spot or commit to appropriate opportunities. Not knowing what you want wastes everyone's time.