When it comes to acing an interview, your body language speaks volumes. In fact, non-verbal cues can account for a significant portion of how interviewers perceive you. Beyond the words you say, your gestures, posture, and facial expressions can either enhance or hinder your chances of making a great impression. Here’s what to do—and what to avoid—to ensure your body language works in your favor during the interview.
What to Do
1. Maintain Good Posture
Good posture conveys confidence and professionalism. Sit up straight with your shoulders back, avoiding slouching or leaning back too far in your chair. Standing tall with your feet flat on the floor projects self-assurance and attentiveness, which can help build rapport with the interviewer.
2. Make Eye Contact
Maintaining eye contact shows that you are engaged, confident, and interested in the conversation. While you shouldn’t stare or look intimidating, aim to hold eye contact for a few seconds at a time to create a sense of connection. Avoid looking down or constantly shifting your gaze, as it can appear that you're distracted or nervous.
3. Smile
A warm, genuine smile can put both you and the interviewer at ease. It signals friendliness and openness. Smiling helps humanize you beyond your qualifications, making you more likable and approachable. However, avoid over-smiling, which can seem forced.
4. Use Hand Gestures
Moderate hand gestures can emphasize key points and make you seem more passionate and engaged. When appropriate, use your hands to help explain ideas or to express enthusiasm. Just be mindful not to overdo it, as excessive gestures can become distracting.
5. Nod to Show Understanding
When the interviewer is speaking, nodding occasionally shows you are actively listening and processing the information. It helps convey empathy and shows that you are receptive to what’s being said. However, avoid excessive nodding, as it could come across as insincere.
What to Avoid
1. Crossing Your Arms
Crossing your arms can signal defensiveness or discomfort. While it may be a subconscious action, it can create a barrier between you and the interviewer, which can hinder rapport-building. Instead, keep your arms relaxed by your sides or rest your hands in your lap.
2. Fidgeting
Fidgeting with your hands, tapping your foot, or playing with objects on the table can make you appear nervous or distracted. It can also be perceived as a lack of focus or respect for the interviewer. If you catch yourself fidgeting, take a deep breath and focus on maintaining composure.
3. Avoiding Eye Contact
While you don’t want to stare, avoiding eye contact entirely can come off as a lack of confidence or that you’re being dishonest. If you find eye contact challenging, focus on the interviewer’s forehead or eyebrows as an alternative to looking away.
4. Slouching or Leaning Too Far Back
Slouching or leaning too far back in your chair may signal disinterest or a lack of commitment. Leaning forward slightly (without crossing into personal space) demonstrates engagement and interest in the conversation. Maintain a balance of comfort and attentiveness in your posture.
5. Touching Your Face or Hair
Frequently touching your face, hair, or neck can signal anxiety or discomfort. While it’s natural to touch your face occasionally, constant movements in this area can be distracting and give off the wrong impression. Keep your hands relaxed and avoid fiddling with your appearance during the interview.
Final Thoughts
Mastering interview body language is just as important as preparing for common interview questions or researching the company. The way you present yourself physically can leave a lasting impression on your potential employer. By adopting confident, open body language, and avoiding negative signals like fidgeting or crossing your arms, you can demonstrate professionalism and readiness for the role. Practice good posture, maintain eye contact, and use natural gestures to help convey your enthusiasm and qualifications effectively. A few simple tweaks to your body language could be the key to making a strong, positive impression and landing your dream job.