Improve Your Interviewing Body Language

Are you communicating a positive attitude and interested demeanor to your interviewers? Body language (kinesics) is a significant part of communication and psychologists say that over 50% of the meaning of communication is non-verbal. Some say up to 90%. Much of the way we interpret the body language of others is subconscious so we're not always aware we're doing it but it is constantly happening in conversations.

Beware of poor body language with employers. They are forming their first impression of you from the moment they lay eyes on you, before a word is even spoken. I’ve heard several interviewers say an applicant was “too passive” in the interview or seemed like he “wouldn’t be fast-paced enough”. How did they decide that? What is your body language saying?

1. Body Language: Walking slowly, not keeping up with the interviewer.

Translation: You may not be fast-paced enough for their environment.

What To Do Instead: Keep up! Walk briskly when called and keep pace with the interviewer.

2. Body Language: Limp or clammy handshake.

Translation: Passive personality or lack of self-confidence.

What To Do Instead: Give a firm (but not bone-breaking) handshake with direct eye-contact. A pumping handshake indicates enthusiasm.

3. Body Language: Leaning back fully in your chair (beyond just sitting up straight).

Translation: Arrogance or laziness.

What To Do Instead: Sit leaning slightly forward to show interest in what the interviewer is saying. Use some hand gestures when talking to convey energy.

4. Body Language: Little eye-contact or looking down while talking.

Translation: Disinterest, boredom, insecurity, or low self-confidence.

What To Do Instead: Maintain eye-contact with speakers (but not in a creepy, staring way).

5. Body Language: Crossing your arms or closing your fists.

Translation: Defensiveness.

What To Do Instead: Use open body language: Keep your palms open and don't cross your arms or legs.

6. Body Language: Covering your mouth with your hand or touching or scratching your nose.

Translation: You may have something to hide.

What To Do Instead: Keep your hands away from your face.

7. Body Language: Tapping your pen on the table, saying "um" or "you know" repeatedly, fidgeting, stuttering, talking excessively or rambling.

Translation: Nervousness / anxiety.

What To Do Instead: Practice answering interview questions in front of a friend or mirror until you feel comfortable with your answers and your speech is confident and fluent.

8. Body Language: Rarely smiling or insincere smiling.

Translation: Negative attitude.

What To Do Instead: Give a genuine wide smile often and laugh when appropriate. They are evaluating whether your personality will fit in there.

9. Body Language: Head held high with a pronounced, raised chin.

Translation: Arrogance.

What To Do Instead: Make sure you aren't literally looking down your nose at the interviewer, but don't hang your head down either.

You may be scratching your nose because it actually itches, and you maybe crossing your arms because you’re cold; however, the other potential interpretations of these subtle cues are negative. Be mindful of your body movements in your interactions with potential employers. Use body language to your advantage and send the right message.