To make sure that you don’t waste all of your efforts, it will help you to know these six common reasons that employers turn people down for jobs.

Inappropriate attire – While dressing well is just one factor among many, it certainly will give you a better chance. Looking the part will give an employer the impression that you are serious and know why you are there. It can also give you added boost of confidence, knowing that you already look the part.

Not looking interested – Your answers may be good, but you don’t sound and look convincing. Everything in you should show that you want the job—from your look, facial expression, body language, and tone—to convince an employer that you’re really interested.

No confidence – You’re uncomfortable making eye contact, smiling, standing straight, and giving a handshake, which is why your interviews are going south. Having and showing confidence is something that many employers look for, especially in a position where you have to represent the company.

Talking negatively about a previous employer – We all have had bad experiences with our bosses, but this part of our lives should be kept private, especially in an interview. No employer wants to hear an applicant say bad things about their last boss when you can do the same to them.

Giving in to your temptation – Gadgets are a major part of our daily lives today, and taking your hands off of them can be a little hard, especially when you want to make one last quick text or call. But even though you might want to do that, it’s better to leave it turned off—or better yet, leave it in the car, where you can’t reach for it.

No concrete examples – You believe that you are the most organized and smartest person among your competition, and maybe it’s true, but even that won’t be enough if you can’t give quantifiable examples of what you know and what you can do.

Getting an interview is a big deal; it’s a step closer to getting the job you want. If you don’t want your efforts to go to waste, you need to make sure that you don’t make any of those six mistakes.