The interview can be your doorway to a new career or it can be the
time when you separate yourself from others – and not in a good way. The
interviewer is considering everything you say – and everything you don’t say,
too.
Body language is the universal language that people use to
determine what you really mean, what you feel about yourself, how truthful you
are being, and how competent you are. It is important to be aware of what
kinds of signals you are giving off, especially when you are in an interview
situation.
Here are a few things you should be aware of:
Practice Your Handshake
This is one of the first chances you will have to make a good
impression on the interviewer. It is the accepted means of introducing
yourself and the interviewer will use it as a way of determining your
personality. It can start your interview off on a great note or it can
signal the interviewer to look for other signals as to your suitability for the
job. A weak handshake or sweaty palms are two of the warning signals that
tell the interviewer that you are not confident in yourself. Remember to
have a firm handshake – but don’t overdo it!
It’s In the Eyes
During an interview, eye contact can tell the interviewer many
things. If you do not keep eye contact, the interviewer may think that
you are being untruthful, that you are not really interested in the job, or
that you do not believe in yourself. Do not stare at the interviewer to the
point that it makes him or her feel awkward, but connect frequently. If
you have more than one interviewer, make sure that you meet the eyes of each
one periodically so that you do not make one feel more targeted than the other.
Smile and Mean It
A genuine smile is one of the most important types of body
language that you can bring with you on an interview. Notice that I said
genuine. When smiling is forced it just comes across as insincere and
possibly even fearful. A genuine smile can tell the interviewer that you
are happy to be there though. One of the best ways to have a genuine
smile is to relax. If you are tense, your smile tends to come across as
fake. And how do you relax? Be prepared, know your stuff, and
practice.
Other Body Language to Watch For
Almost everyone has some kind of habit that they do when they are
nervous. If I’m sitting and you see my foot bopping up and down – it is a
sure signal that I’m nervous. What do you do? If you’re not sure,
ask your friends. When you find out what that is, you’ll be more aware of
it and more likely to stop yourself. Watch your hand gestures, too.
If they are too big and bold it does not make a great impression.
Good Body Language
You can present a better impression of yourself by leaning forward
slightly when listening to or speaking to the interviewer. It shows that
you are interested and excited. Nod when appropriate. Sit up
straight. Sit slightly forward in the chair. Cross your hands in
your lap. And most of all – relax!
