How to Use Body Language in a Job Interview

Job interviews exist for employers to get a look at job seekers and get a sense of who they are by evaluating the way they present themselves. If a prospective employee's appearance (clothes and body language) didn't matter, there would be no need for interviews; resumes alone would suffice. Conveying the right appearance with body language in an interview can easily be the difference between landing a job and being passed up. To an experienced interviewer, an interviewee's body language speaks to all aspects of his or her character and capabilities. Sending a strong message via physical presentation can provide an edge to help a job candidate stand out against a roster of equally or even better qualified candidates. To put the goal simply, body language in a job interview should be used to convey the traits that employers look for in their employees.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Shake the interviewer's hand with a moderately firm grasp and, ideally, two pumps. While a firm grip conveys strength and confidence, a handshake is not a strength contest. A weak grip conveys intimidation and uncertainty. Some handshakes will of course last longer than others, you'll have to follow the interviewer's lead. To confirm the appearance of confidence, hold eye contact with the employer for the duration of the handshake and don't forget to smile.

2. Sit up straight in your chair. Posture, the most dominant component of body language, provides a presence that gives the appearance of confidence. It suggests that you are comfortable with scrutiny and willing to subject yourself to it. Slouching or sitting low in your seat gives just the opposite impression.

3. Make almost constant eye contact with the interviewer. This shows not only confidence, but that you're paying attention. It also indicates that you expect attention to be paid to you as well. Eye contact is the most important way that body language conveys honesty and lack of eye contact is considered a reliable sign of dishonesty. It is only natural that eye contact will be broken occasionally and briefly. That doesn't mean you should look at the floor or out the window. Keep your eyes focused on the action of the interview, but there's no need to unnaturally stare at the interviewer without any interruption. Just don't forget to reestablish eye contact within a second or two.

4. Keep your legs uncrossed for the duration of the interview. Crossed legs indicate that you are introverted and need distance. The physical barrier it creates translates into a psychological barrier.

5. Keep your arms outside your torso. Don't fold them or hold them in front of you (on your lap or on the desk). Keeping your arms on the armrests of the chair is optimal. If there are no armrests, keep your arms on the outside of your legs. Arms can be seen as a barrier just as crossed legs can. Keeping yourself exposed, without obstruction from your arms, indicates openness and being trustworthy. Having your arms folded is a strikingly defensive position.

6. Avoid fidgeting and frequently adjusting your position. These can give many different impressions, none of them favorable. Such body language can suggest, among other things, nervousness, anxiety, boredom, dishonesty and a lack of confidence. Beyond that, these actions are distracting.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure your hands aren't sweaty before entering the interview. The handshake will be the first impression you make. If need be, carry a handkerchief to dry your hands on.
• Don't nod excessively while listening to the interviewer. While nodding indicates that you're paying attention, giving consideration, and are generally agreeable, too much can be very distracting and seem inauthentic. Never cover your mouth or touch your face when talking. This is one of the most classic body language signs that a person is lying.

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