It only takes a few minutes for a prospective employer to size you up and decide whether you'll be a good fit for the position.  A single quip, remark, or even a facial expression could send the wrong message and knock you out of line for the job.

Here are seven things that will turn off any prospective employer during the interview:

1.  Trashing  your former company.

Talking negatively about your former boss, coworkers, the work environment or anything related to the company only spells trouble in the eyes of the prospective employer. Remember that the employer is trying to find out what you could bring to the company and looking for professionalism.

2.  Demonstrating a lack of direction.   

If  you can't articulate what you expect to bring to the company or position, how this position is a good match for your career path, or how you intend to excel, the prospective employer can simply write to you off as lacking any direction.

3.  Being too desperate.

Just don't let any signs of desperation leak into your voice during the interview, or act desperately after the interview.  Follow up with the hiring manager with a simple thank you note and then wait for the response.

4.  Arriving too early.

Arriving earlier than 10 to 15 minutes  for the interview could make you seem desperate or simply overeager. Arriving late communicates the message,"I couldn't get it together for this meeting" and doesn't win you any points.

5.  Having the money talk.

Don't jump the gun by asking the hiring manager what the pay scale is for the position.  Your first interview should focus solely on what you can bring to the position and cover any questions you have about the nature of the position.

6.  Anxious behavior.

Looking at your watch, tapping your feet, looking away from the interviewer, and acting impatient are a few signs of nervousness and anxiety.   

7.  Dwelling too much on accomplishments   and successes.

Even if you were the company rock star at your former job, don't let that be the focus of your interview.  Your interview needs to focus on what you plan to do in the future and how you plan on helping this company be successful.