When it comes to interviewing, punctuality is a virtue. Show up late, and you might as well not show up at all. However, don't go overboard and take this to mean you can score extra points by showing up especially early. Announcing yourself at the reception desk 45 minutes early and parking yourself in the lobby will be noticed (you can count on it), but is not a plus. Likewise, busy executives do not appreciate hearing that you're waiting for them - 30 minutes ahead of schedule.

You are not sending the message that you are prompt and dependable. Instead, you are sending the message that you are desperate, and you are annoying people. The receptionist will be irritated as you camp out in the lobby. Many candidates compound this mistake by making themselves at home and setting up shop out there on the couch. The cell phone comes out and they place call after call, forgetting how loudly they're speaking. They empty the coffee pot. And so on. Annoy the receptionist at your peril. You can lose the job right here in the waiting area.

The person who's going to interview you is also aggravated. You are showing her you don't respect her time. Your schedule is more important than hers. (This may not be how you feel, but it's what you're communicating.)

The interview hasn't begun. You haven't even met the hiring manager. But she is forming an opinion about you. Trust me...it's not the one you want. It's best to arrive ten minutes in advance of the appointed time. If you made great time and it's earlier than that, wait in the parking lot before going in. If you took the subway, duck into a coffee shop to wait. (Just don't spill any coffee on yourself.)

Be perceived as the punctual professional they're happy to have on site, or as the desperate nuisance they wish they hadn't invited to come in.

Your choice.

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.