Body language in an interview
10 Body Language Tips for Your Next Job Interview.
Skills
Please remember the following key points to make a strong impression during your interview:
Mastering body language in an interview is key to making a great impression. Your gestures, eye contact, and overall presentation speak volumes to potential employers.
Even if your words are perfect, how you deliver them can make all the difference. A strong handshake alone can leave a lasting impact.
What You Wear
The attire you choose for interviews speaks volumes about your understanding of a company's culture and industry. In sectors like finance or law, formal attire is a non-negotiable requirement, signifying seriousness, professionalism, and respect for tradition.
Conversely, in creative industries like tech startups or advertising agencies, a more casual dress code is the norm. Wearing a three-piece suit in these settings may be perceived as out of touch and not aligned with the company culture.
Make Eye Contact
Don't forget to maintain eye contact during your interview. It signifies confidence and active engagement.
Striking a balance is crucial - while too much eye contact can be overwhelming, avoiding eye contact may convey a lack of trustworthiness.
Aim for intermittent eye contact as you listen and respond to questions.
Mastering the Art of Handshaking
A person's handshake is a vital opportunity to establish a positive professional connection using body language.
When meeting your interviewer, ensure your handshake is confident and palm-to-palm, avoiding the overly strong grip.
Greet your interviewer with a warm smile and a friendly salutation.
Smile
A bright, inviting smile not only exudes confidence but also embodies a welcoming and optimistic demeanor, making it a crucial asset in job interviews.
Sit and Stand Up Straight
Maintaining a straight back posture exudes professionalism and indicates that you take yourself and the job seriously. Whether you're walking, sitting, or standing, exuding confidence through your posture is essential.
Control Your Hands
Keep your hands loosely in your lap or place them confidently on the table or armrests to appear at ease. Avoid fidgeting or nervous actions like touching your face or hair, as well as defensive gestures such as crossing your arms.
Avoid Crossing Your Legs
Refrain from crossing your legs as it can create subconscious distance between you and the interviewer, making communication more challenging. Instead, keep both feet grounded or cross your ankles to convey confidence and professionalism.
Breathe
Focus on regulating your breathing to maintain a confident and composed demeanor.
Show Emotion
Maintain a warm and engaging smile throughout your conversation, but don't hesitate to show determination and resilience when discussing the challenges you've faced. Relive your experiences by sharing compelling stories and making eye contact with your interviewer.
When shaking hands, offer a firm and confident grip, ensuring a palm-to-palm connection. Avoid an overly forceful handshake. Greet your interviewer with a genuine smile and a welcoming salutation.
It's customary to start and end your interview with a professional handshake, so remember to shake hands with your interviewer at both the beginning and conclusion of the process.
Stay engaged and responsive
To make a positive impression during the interview, it's crucial to be responsive and attentive. Acknowledge the interviewer's points by nodding occasionally without interrupting. This approach enables you to establish a connection with the hiring manager and demonstrate your active engagement.
Avoid appearing disinterested or nervous by refraining from staring into the distance with unfocused eyes or staying motionless. Projecting attentiveness and confidence will reinforce your genuine interest in the position.