08 Oct 09 The Importance Of Body Language In An Interview

A massive part of any interview isn’t what you or the interviewer says, but rather your body language.  Body language is a huge form of communication that most don’t even notice.  The visual clues that people emit affect emotions from how that person is received, to deductions on how that person feels.  Sending the wrong body language in an interview could lead to you not getting a job, no matter what you say.  Coming off anything less than positive could be enough to seal the deal, and make you appear less than fit for the job.

So be conscious about everything you’re doing as you walk through the door.  When your interview begins, think about the facial expression you have.  The first thing an interviewer wants to see, is a confident positive person walking through their door.  Does your face reflect confidence, and a positive attitude?  Exactly what you should be asking yourself.  Stand up straight, reflect good posture, and smile politely.  But don’t appear overconfident, remember you don’t have the job yet, and overconfidence can be just as bad as negative body language.

From the successful entrance, make sure to shake hands with ever interviewer present.  If you’re being interviewed by a panel, or just one person, make sure to walk over to them and give a good firm handshake.  A firm handshake is important, as it shows confidence and also the ability to lead.  You’re unafraid when you give someone a firm handshake, and up for the challenge.  Make that clear by speaking through your body.

From there make sure to keep up that good posture when you sit down.  Respond positively to every question, keeping your confident and courteous demeanor no matter the topic.  Also remember to use hand gestures casually when speaking.  By using hand gestures you show a calmness during your speech that will resonate on the interviewer.  Don’t get excessive with your hand motions, but tracing a few shapes to illustrate an idea is always good.

Answer questions by leaning forward slightly, to show genuine interest and consideration in the question, and your answer.  Don’t forget to also keep your voice at a higher decibel.  You want to be heard, but you don’t have to shout.  Being too loud makes you look overconfident, and that never plays well.  Speak so all can hear you, but don’t hurt their ears.

Finally, shake hands with everyone once the interview is over, and thank them for the opportunity.  Then, keeping your posture straight, and your disposition positive and courteous, leave the room the same way you came.  If you pull off all of these factors correctly, your body language will have been pretty much impeccable.  Letting your body speak with you could even just be that edge you need to land that job.

Tags: Calmness, Communication, Confidence, Demeanor, Emotions, Facial Expression, Fit, Getting A Job, Good Posture, Hand Gestures, Hand Motions, Handshake, Interviewer, Lead, Negative Body Language, Positive Attitude, Posture, Shapes, Smile