Interview Body Language: What to Do and What to Avoid
Interviewing involves disciplines such as the display of nonverbal communication and gestures. In addition, the best of the tailored resume and the most considerate answers may not work out very well if your body language does not support your words. In an interview, one aims at what one is saying and how it is conveyed during the process. In this article, we are going to explore the dos and don’ts of using body language and how you can get the interview just right.
Why Body Language Matters in Interviews?
It shows how confident, interested, or positive you are. In another way, it depicts your attitude. Some authors argue that as much as half of what we communicate may be nonverbal. Interviewers do listen to what you are saying but at the same time, they are looking at the nonverbal cues. Paralinguistic support can strengthen what you are telling your audience, while paralinguistic interference can weaken your authority.
The Do’s of Interview Body Language
1. Maintain Eye Contact
Eye contact conveys confidence and engagement. It shows you’re actively listening and paying attention to the conversation. However, make sure not to overdo it. Staring can make things awkward. Strike a balance by maintaining natural, relaxed eye contact with the interviewer.
2. Sit Up Straight
Posture speaks volumes about your professionalism. Sitting up straight shows you are focused and ready. Slouching, on the other hand, can make you appear disengaged or unprepared. Ensure your back is against the chair with your feet planted firmly on the ground. This helps you look attentive and open.
3. Use Hand Gestures (Sparingly)
Hand gestures can help you articulate your thoughts and make your communication more dynamic. But moderation is key. Subtle gestures can emphasize a point or convey enthusiasm. Just avoid exaggerating your movements, as that can be distracting.
4. Smile
A genuine smile can set a positive tone and help you build rapport with the interviewer. It conveys warmth and approachability, which are essential for creating a good impression. Remember, smiling too much or too little can come off as unnatural, so aim for balance.
5. Nod When Appropriate
Nodding while the interviewer speaks indicates that you’re listening and understanding their points. It creates a rhythm of engagement and shows that you’re following along. Make sure not to over-nod, as that can seem mechanical or insincere.
6. Mirror the Interviewer’s Movements
Mirroring is a subtle way to build rapport. When you mirror the interviewer’s posture or gestures (without being obvious), it creates a sense of connection. This tactic shows that you’re in sync with the conversation, and people tend to respond positively to this unconscious alignment.
The Don’ts of Interview Body Language
1. Avoid Crossed Arms
Crossing your arms can signal defensiveness or discomfort, both of which are not ideal during an interview. Even if you do it subconsciously, it creates a barrier between you and the interviewer. Keep your arms relaxed and at your sides or gently rest on the table.
2. Don’t Fidget
Constant movement, such as tapping your feet, playing with a pen, or fiddling with your hair, can signal nervousness and distract the interviewer. Try to be aware of your body and minimize any restless actions. Fidgeting can take attention away from what you’re saying, which is never a good thing.
3. Avoid Leaning Too Far Forward or Backward
Leaning too far forward can come across as aggressive or overly eager, while leaning too far back may seem disinterested. Strive for a neutral position that exudes calm confidence. This balance helps you come off as engaged but not overly assertive.
4. Don’t Glance at the Clock or Phone
Glancing at your phone or watch can make it seem like you’re distracted or anxious for the interview to end. Even if you’re feeling nervous or rushed, maintain your focus on the interviewer. This signals that you respect their time and are fully present.
5. Avoid Forced Smiling or Excessive Nodding
Forced smiles can make you seem insincere, and excessive nodding may come off as though you’re trying too hard to please. Both actions can give the wrong impression. It’s better to stay natural and let your facial expressions align with the conversation naturally.
How to Prepare Your Body Language Before an Interview?
1. Practice in Front of a Mirror
Before your interview, practice answering questions in front of a mirror. This allows you to observe your facial expressions and posture. Are you frowning too much? Are you slouching? Correct any bad habits before the big day.
2. Record Yourself
Another way to assess your body language is by recording yourself. Play it back and notice any distracting gestures or facial expressions. This exercise helps identify nervous habits you might not even be aware of.
3. Relax and Breathe
Tension shows up in your body language. Practice breathing techniques to stay calm and composed. Relaxed shoulders, a natural posture, and steady breathing will make you feel more comfortable and confident.
Conclusion
Controlling how you sit, stand, move, or gesture when and where you are sure will go a long way in determining whether you can impress the employer during the interview. The adaptations, that can be employed, are optimism felt by the client, good eye contact, smiling, and correct body posture to emanate a positive corporate image. However, such non-verbal signs as leg shaking, shifting in the seat, or averting eyes will harm the perception of your message.
Next time, let your body do the talking because even when you are silent, it will be shouting. Remember always that there is always a right body language and with some practice, you will realize that it is part of you.
