How to make a great impression during a job interview
Successfully interviewing for a new job includes not only the presentation of a well-polished resume and an immaculate appearance, but also using your non-verbal communication skills to express professionalism and self-confidence.
Preparing yourself before the interview can provide you with effective ways to express proper body language for increasing your chances of landing that perfect job.
The following tips can help you present yourself in a highly professional manner:
First Impressions with the Receptionist
Oftentimes you will be told to sit and wait in the reception area until your interviewer is ready to begin. Avoid talking on your cell phone, fixing your makeup or adjusting your clothing. Some bosses will ask their receptionists what their impressions were of the candidate, so it is important to maintain professionalism while waiting.
First Impressions with the Interviewer
When first meeting the interviewer, you should walk in using good posture. Make immediate eye contact and with a large smile, offer a firm handshake. This will non-verbally express your sense of confidence, which is most important for making that positive first impression.
Hands and Arms
Avoid touching your hair and your face as this expresses the nonverbal message of anxiety and nervousness. Do not fold your arms across your chest as this relays a message of defensiveness and always avoid talking with your hands. Waving them around may be perceived as a lack of certainty and professionalism. The less you move your hands and arms, the more this expresses to the interviewer that you are confident and in control. It is best to rest your hands in your lap or on a table, keeping them loosely clasped.
Legs and Feet
Avoid moving your legs and feet as constant movement can indicate nervousness and lack of concentration. You should keep your legs uncrossed and comfortably positioned. Feet can be placed flat on the floor or crossed at the ankles offering the body language of confidence and professionalism.
Posture
While sitting in your chair, sit upright, but not stiff. Poor posture while sitting can indicate a lack of energy and a careless attitude. Avoid hunching down as this expresses low self-esteem. You should lean slightly forward in a relaxed manner. This offers the body language of interest and involvement.
Balancing on your Chair
Always avoid leaning back in the chair. This offers the body language of carelessness and lack of seriousness. Keep the chair in its proper position and stay focused on what the interviewer is saying.
Eye Contact
Keeping eye contact with the interviewer while they are talking and asking questions is extremely important. Avoid staring and try your best to blink normally. While you are talking, hold eye contact for about 10 seconds, then briefly look away, and re-establish eye contact once again.
Emotions
It is best to not show too much emotion during the interview. You should nod and smile at the appropriate times, but do not erupt in laughter, unless the interviewer is doing so.
Touching
Avoid tinkering around with items that may be on the interviewer’s desk. Also, avoid making small talk or asking questions about personal items that the interviewer has on display. This is considered unprofessional and it could cost you the job.
Conclusion
Using the correct body language is just as important as using the correct verbal language when interviewing for jobs. By practicing these proper body language expressions and avoiding the negative ones, this can help increase your chances of landing that perfect job.
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