Body Language Tips for Interviews

When at your interview you want to give the interviewer the best impression of you. This is when body language becomes important. Interviewers can pick up on bad body language and this could lead to you either not getting a second interview or even the job!

Appearance is key during an interview. This is not only just down to how you are dressed but also how you carry yourself. Having bad body language can send bad signals to the interviewer which could, in turn, put your application in doubt.

Below we have created a short list of Do’s and Don’ts for body language tips during an interview:

Do’s:

• Compose yourself prior to your interview. The interviewer can tell if a candidate is overly nervous or not.
• When greeting the interviewer(s) make sure that you stand up rather than sit down.
• Have a firm handshake and make eye contact while greeting and saying goodbye to the interviewers.
• Do not take a seat until invited to by the interviewer.
• Make sure that you sit up straight and keep your hands above the table to prevent you from fidgeting.
• Make sure that you maintain eye contact with the interviewer as this shows that you are not distracted.
• Use positive gestures throughout your interview such as nodding, smiling and agreeing when appropriate.
• Make sure that you maintain your composure and dress code until you are clear of the building that you had your interview in. As you never know who will see you or you may bump into the interviewer on the way out.

Don’ts:

• Such as scratching or rubbing body parts. This makes it look like you are distracted and uncomfortable in your interview.
• Play with your hands. This can be distracting to both you and the interviewer.
• Folding your arms. This could make you appear to be defensive, arrogant and unfriendly. All of which are impressions that you don’t want to give.
• Don’t slouch in your chair. This makes you look disinterested.
• Continuously crossing and uncrossing your legs. This makes you look nervous and uncomfortable.

The best way to ensure that you have positive body language during an interview is to make sure that you have prepared yourself properly for it. The more prepared you are the less nervous you will be, which in turn will affect your body language in a positive manner.

If you would like more information on body language and how to compose yourself for an interview contact the Abacus Careers Team for more information on 028 9031 3157 | [email protected]