How to Send Positive Nonverbal Message During an Interview

What you say during and interview is important, but so is what you're not saying. Nonverbal signs will be obvious to an interviewer and as an interviewee, it is your responsibility to maintain a positive demeanor.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Dress the part. Have on appropriate clothing and make sure your hair is done nicely. Look neat and tidy.

2. Smile. As soon as you walk through the door you must look like you want the job and that you are excited to be there.

3. Have a firm handshake. A weak handshake is a sign of indifference. Practice with someone to get the correct grip.

4. Listen attentively. Show your comprehension by nodding, laughing, and speaking when necessary.

5. Keep appropriate eye contact. It comes off as nervousness or boredom when your eyes wander. Even if you are bored or nervous, try to maintain eye contact. On the other hand, don't just stare at the interviewer. You can let your eyes move off of the interviewer about 20 percent of the time.

6. Be organized. When you have to bring in documents, don't have pages falling out. Keep everything neat and organized.

7. Eliminate shifting. It is acceptable to be nervous, but shifting too much during an interview can be distracting.

Tips & Warnings

• Have mock interviews and go through them as though you were going to a real interview.

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