We all will agree more or less on this point: job interviews can be a nerve-wracking experience, which requires a lot of technical and mental preparation to come out of one with flying colors. Along with technical go-through, many candidates frequently focus on the verbal communication part, ignoring the nonverbal part, which is quite the wrong path to take while preparing for interviews. Non-verbal communication, predominantly through body language and body postures, is a fundamental part of communication in job interviews and goes along with technical skills and expertise.
I bet you have heard the saying: “First Impression is the last impression.” This statement implies that first impressions are critical, and body language is one of the first things an interviewer will notice about you when you enter the interview room. It can impact the interviewer’s impression of you and influence the decision if you are an ideal fit for the job. Most importantly, positive body language can assist you with establishing a good impression and boost your chances of bagging the offer.
Let us explore the significance of body language in job interviews and discuss tips on the most effective method to develop it further.
Maintain Eye Contact in Job Interviews
This is, by far, the most fundamental aspect of positive body language, which people often forget. Eye contact conveys confidence, attentiveness, and willingness to participate in the discussion and can assist in developing a rapport with the interviewer. Although, keep in mind not to stare or have a sharp gaze on the interviewer as it might make the interviewer unconformable, which is something you wouldn’t want to do in an interview
Keep Up a Correct Sitting Posture
One more significant aspect of body language in a job interview is posture. Always sit upright, and try not to slump or recline in the seat. A correct sitting posture emphasizes certainty and commitment while slumping or couching in the chair conveys a lack of engagement and laziness.
Utilize Effective Hand Gestures
Gestures are fundamental in conveying positive body language during a job interview. Try to use hand gestures while talking, as it assists with emphasizing your answers and showing enthusiasm. Avoid squirming or playing with your hands since it can demonstrate anxiety or distractions.
Always Bear a Sweet Smile
It’s a must. Facial expressions are also vital in conveying positive body language during a job interview, as a comforting grin can assist with laying out compatibility with the interviewer and create a positive atmosphere. Keep your face fresh and energetic and avoid looking exhausted, as it can convey a lack of engagement or cynicism.
Focus On the Negatives
With the positives, you should also focus on your negative body language, if any, so that you are informed of their presence and work to mitigate them. Things such as folding your arms, for instance, can convey defensiveness or resistance, while touching your face or hair can demonstrate anxiety or lack of confidence. Some of these actions can happen involuntarily during a challenging time, such as a job interview, and hence it becomes more important to focus on them and avoid them as soon as it comes to our notice.
Positive body language is a fundamental part of communication in job interviews as it can assist you with establishing a decent connection with the interviewers. In short, negative body language can reduce your possibility of getting recruited. By keeping eye contact, sitting upright, utilizing suitable gestures, and distancing yourself from negative non-verbal communication, you can improve your body language during prospective job interviews, thus significantly pushing you ahead of your fellow candidates.
