Body language tips for your job interview

Created by Olesia Viuzhanina

“As long as someone holds an arms-folded position, a negative attitude will persist.”
Allan Pease
The Author of “The Definitive Book of Body Language”

Body language during a job interview plays an integral role in determining whether an applicant successfully gets the job or not. It is a nonverbal form of communication that reveals a lot about a person’s thoughts, emotions, and confidence level. Considering that nonverbal communication accounts for approximately 65% of communication, mastering your body language during an interview is essential. In this blog post, we will discuss why body language is important and the mistakes you should avoid during a job interview.

The Importance of Body Language During a Job Interview

First impressions in job interviews usually set the tone for the rest of the conversation. The interaction of the interviewer and the interviewee begins from the onset of the interview. Nonverbal communication, such as your facial expressions, posture, and gestures, may convey more information to the interviewer than the words that you say. Here are some reasons why body language is important during a job interview:

1. Communication

Body language can help reinforce the messages of your verbal communication. When an interviewer notices that your words and body language match, they are likely to perceive you as an honest and trustworthy candidate. In contrast, communication mismatch can make the interviewer doubt your credibility.

2. Confidence

Nonverbal communication during a job interview can portray confidence. A candidate who sits up straight, maintains eye contact, and has a genuine smile exudes confidence, which indicates that you are the right person for the job.

3. Influence

Candidates who convey positive body language can gain more influence over the interviewer. Good nonverbal communication can make you more likable and appear approachable, which can go a long way in influencing the interviewer’s decision.

Mistakes to Avoid During A Job Interview

To give the best impression during the interview, candidates should avoid making these common mistakes:

1. Poor posture

Your posture could make or break your first impression. Maintain good posture by sitting up straight with your shoulders relaxed and back. Avoid slouching or leaning on the desk, which can communicate a lack of confidence.
Avoid an arms-folded position. Most people will take an arms-folded position when they disagree with what they’re hearing from another person speaking.

2. Avoiding eye contact

Your eyes can reveal a lot of information about you. Not maintaining eye contact could make you appear dishonest, anxious, or uninterested in the job. Make an effort to maintain steady eye contact with the interviewer to show them that you are engaged and genuine.

3. Fidgeting movements

Fidgeting is a common mistake that can be done unknowingly, such as tapping your feet or hands, playing with your hair, or bouncing your knees. These movements can be distracting to the interviewer, which can diminish their attention and make it difficult to focus on your responses.

4. Lack of facial expressions

Your facial expressions can be an indicator of how you feel about a situation. If you have a neutral or blank look when the interviewer asks you a question, it might indicate a lack of enthusiasm. Exuding positivity with a smile can make the interviewer feel that you are excited about the opportunity and are genuinely interested in the job.

Body language is an integral aspect of the interview process and should be taken seriously. Remember to maintain Good Posture, make Eye Contact, avoid Fidgeting, and have Positive Facial Expressions. By following these tips, you can communicate confidence, trustworthiness, and enthusiasm, which can help you stand out during the interview process.

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