Interviewing is a multi-sensory experience. And if you inadvertently assault any one of the interviewer's five senses – sight, hearing, taste, touch, or smell – you could blow the interview before it ever starts.

1. Sight

Do not let your interviewer see:

• You looking at your watch,

• You looking at your Blackberry,

• Your numerous unconventional piercings,

• Your extensive body art gallery,

• Your cleavage,

• Your bare arms (guys, please no short-sleeve shirts with a tie)

• Your excessive bling, or

• The label on the sleeve of your new suit.

That label? Cut it off, along with the threads on the pockets and the back flap.

2. Hearing

Put away your iPod and your (muted) cell phone. If you can't get through a pre-interview waiting period without music or a phone call, how will you get through the workday?

3. Taste

You will probably be asked if you'd like coffee or water. It's a very simple, yes-or-no question. Either answer is acceptable.

4. Touch

The proverbial firm handshake is good. Anything beyond that is probably too touchy-feely for an interview.

5. Smell

Repeat after me, "I will strive to be unscented in my job interview."  Garlic, onions, alcohol, and cigarettes are obvious no-no's before an interview. But steer clear of "good" smells, too. If your scent (cologne, hairspray, whatever) is strong enough to be noticed, it's too strong.

In most cases, , it's easier to avoid sending up sensory "red flags" in the first place.

Best of luck,

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