Whatever you say during a job interview, if your body language tells a different story, you may seem self-doubting, unreliable or dominant. Effective non-verbal communication techniques are as important as your verbal communication skills. So now it is time for you to use your body language as a powerful means of communication.
Give the best first impression
The handshake
Give a firm handshake. Soft handshake gives the impression that you feel uncertain. Don’t squeeze your partner’s hand either. Such a handshake may give the impression that you are quite dominant. Do not hesitate to initiate the first handshake if you can. This will give an excellent first impression and the message you are communicating is that you feel confident and ready to start the interview.
Sweaty hands just before your interview is common. But they can give the impression that you are nervous or uncertain. Before getting up to meet the recruiter, dry your sweaty hands discreetly on your knees.
Control your facial expressions
Make sure your face is relaxed and neutral. No frowns, no tension, no licking your lips and smile! Practice in front of a mirror. Relax tension from your face. Soften your eyes. Now smile with your eyes as well as your mouth. It is pleasant for a recruiter to welcome a candidate who looks sincerely happy to be here!
YOUR POSTURE
Sit up straight
When the interviewer offers you a seat at the start of the job interview, sit firmly and lean your back straight against the chair. This indicates that you are comfortable and feeling confident. Hunching down in your chair gives the impression of nervousness and low self-esteem. Leaning back makes you appear too casual. Leaning to the side can be perceived as not feeling comfortable with the interviewer.
YOUR HEAD AND YOUR EYES?
Maintain eye contact
Try to ensure an authentic smile, a firm voice and constant eye contact during the introduction with the recruiter. If your eyes go away from your conversation partner(s) you may seem insecure, dishonest, indifferent or arrogant.
You would probably have to introduce yourself to a panel of interviewers. Try to give everyone the same kind of eye contact when you speak. This way you will show that you are sincere and interested. When someone asks a question, look him or her in the eye at the beginning of your answer and then shift your eyes to the other conversation partners.
Nod only when you agree
When you understand an important point and when you want to invite the recruiter to continue talking, nod your head 2 times while maintaining the eye contact. Nodding your head slowly or offering a sincere smile confirms that you are giving full attention to the speaker.
YOUR ARMS AND HANDS
Never cross your arms
Crossed arms give a ‘closed’ impression. As a result, crossed arms are often interpreted as a symbol of uncertainty, unreliability or lack of interest. Try to avoid this by not crossing your arms. Use your arms only to give value to your message. Put your hands on the table or bring a notebook and a pencil. Taking notes is a professional way to use your hands.
Don’t touch yourself
This may sound weird, but it is a natural reflex to touch your nose, cheeks and lips when you are speaking. It is a common way to soothe yourself. Touching any part of your face or neck can indicate anxiety, nervousness or a lack of control. Wringing your hands as if you’re washing them is also a sign of discomfort or a lack of preparation.
