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Body Language Tips for a Successful Interview

You’ve probably heard how very important it is that you give off the right body language when applying for a job. This couldn’t be more true. You could have all the qualifications, skills, and expertise that the hiring company wants, but if your body language is bad, your chances of getting the job is slim to none-and in most cases, none. The real kicker is that even if the employer is not consciously aware of your body language, he/she is subconsciously reactive to these movements and stance; that’s why you’ve got to get it right. Here are the essentials on positive body language to ace that interview and get that job once and for all.

1.  Arms- Ok…so I am sure you’ve heard it before, but how you hold you arms determines the persona you      give off. If you have your arms at your sides while interviewing, it shows you are open-minded and      positive. On the contrary, if you have a tendency of crossing your arms over your chest, it gives off the      notion that you are negative and close-minded. You may or may not believe the psychology of such a      simple gesture, but try practicing both of these body positions on someone other than an employer and      notice the huge difference in how they respond to you.

2.  Legs- Perhaps you’ve never considered how the positioning of your legs might give off a good or bad vibe      at an interview. First off, know that letting your legs wiggle, shake, or the like out of nervousness will be                                                                        your first mistake. It is not only distracting to the employer, but                                                                        also a sign of nervousness. Secondly, try not to cross your legs at                                                                        the knee as it is the most defensive of body language gestures.                                                                        Instead, try sitting with legs together-crossed or uncrossed, as                                                                        this is seen as open-minded and relaxed.

                                                                  3.  Posture- There was a reason that your mom always reminded                                                                        you to sit up straight-not just for health, but also to make the                                                                        best professional impression in situations such as interviews. It                                                                        shows that you are alert, conscientious, and full of energy;                                                                        whereas a slouch expresses laziness and negativity.

                                                                  4.  Eyes- I know you’ve heard this one, but it is by far the most                                                                        important of body language rules ot live by. Make sure to keep                                                                        steady and constant eye contact with your interviewer. By                                                                        keeping a steady connection in this way, you assure that                                                                        employer that you are confident, enthusiastic, truthful, and most                                                                        importantly-listening to them as they discuss the position you are                                                                        applying for with you. These are all necessary traits that potential                                                                        employers look for, and anything less than this falls by the wayside.

5.  Hands- The position of the hands is perhaps one of the less known body language determinants, but it is      equally as important to get right as any other body part. You should keep your hands palms up and open      to express a friendly and open-minded demeanor, while keeping palms down expresses hostility and      negativity.

6.  Head- Who would think that there was a right way and a wrong way to hold your head? There is though.      In order to give off the best body language through the positioning of your head, you should always keep      your head level. This gives off a demeanor that is confident, attentive, and positive. You can tilt your head      slightly to show interest, but do your best not to make any demonstrative or jerky movements with your      head as it shows unbalance, nervousness, and possible negativity. Ever heard of someone having their      head on straight?