Body language in interviews is important. The way you behave and speak can influence your first impression of someone new – and is something employers pay attention to.
Make sure your words align with your body language with our handy tips to show confidence, enthusiasm and likability in an interview.
What do nerves look like?
Many people think nerves are invisible to other people, like butterflies in your stomach or a racing heartbeat.
But there are physical symptoms that can be misunderstood as negative body language, including:
- Feet dragging – implies laziness/sluggishness
- Weak handshake – suggests you are shy or afraid
- Arms crossed on chest – appears defensive, creating a barrier between you and the person you are talking to
- Hands in pockets – implies you have something to hide.
Even though these things might be true, your interviewers might think you are not interested in the role. You want to show confidence and interest.
What does confidence look like?
Confidence is shown through positive language. You want to prove to interviewers that you are well-prepared and interested in the job.
Examples include:
- Walking briskly into the room
- A firm handshake if it is a face-to-face interview
- Eye contact
- Open arms and palms.
Interviewers read your body language, so it is important to show confidence to prove you are right for the job.
Are they interested in you?
Your interviewers’ body language can help you understand how the interview is going – and if you need to adjust your performance.
Smiles, nodding and leaning towards you suggest you are holding their attention. Sighs, looking away or folded arms may show they are not as impressed – and you need to find a way to bring their attention back to you.
But remember now to fixate on body language. Just because an interviewer fails to raise a smile does not mean you have not performed well – everyone’s personalities are different.
Remember your body language in interviews
Body language is a sign of confidence – and it can help you succeed at every stage of your job search.
