We've all had that moment (or, as the case may be, those moments). Whether 5 minutes later or the following day, the amazing comeback or witty response pops into your head after the fact. Too little, too late.

Obviously, lapses like this aren't limited to everyday conversations; they happen during interviews, too.

You're asked a question, your brain freezes up - so you stumble and give a weak response.

Later, when you're more relaxed and you've had some time to think it over, the right words pop into your head. You know exactly what you should have said. Why did this not come to you when you needed it? You just know it would have been a slam dunk answer!

But you blew it. And there are no do-overs when it comes to interviews.

You've got one chance to make the right impression...one opportunity to convince the person you're talking with that you're the person they ought to hire.

You need to try to anticipate everything you might be asked and know how you're going to respond. You must be able to articulate what's unique about you - why should they hire you and not the next person? (They're not going to coax it out of you...) You need to be able to speak to and support every line on your resume. You've got to do your homework and thoroughly research the company.

The better prepared you are, the less likely you are to fumble your responses. Or worse yet, find yourself at a total loss for words.

Woulda, coulda, shoulda. Don't let it happen to you.

Rebecca Metschke helps professionals improve their marketability. The author of The Interview Edge ( http://www.TheInterviewEdge.com ), a comprehensive career guide to career management, she also writes a daily blog posting strategies, tips and advice for thsoe whose careers are in transition ( http://blog.TheInterviewEdge.com ). You're welcome to friend her on Facebook.