Having a great resumé isn't the only thing you need to get ready for your next interview. Non-verbal communication skills can be just as powerful during and after an interview. Body language is a key factor in the hiring process, it helps employers determine what kind of worker you'll be. Check out these tips on body language that will help you crush your next interview with finesse.
Don’t Break Eye Contact Too Soon
Too much eye contact is a bad thing, but so is too little. Hold you eye contact for just a second longer than you usually would — This will make you feel more eager and enthused.
Try To Avoid Shifty Eyes
Rapid eye movements when talking conveys a lack of self confidence or even worse — lying! Maintain solid eye contact when talking, but be sure to not overdo it.
Avoid Aggressive Gestures
Pointing or any other aggressive movements are highly frowned upon in interviews. You come off as being someone who isn’t pleasant to work with, or someone who can’t deal with authority.
Don’t Clench Your Fists
Similar to crossing your arms, clenching your fists signal that you are not open to ideas or suggestions. This can also make you look defensive and unapproachable.
Don’t Cross Your Arms
Crossing your arms signify defiance and stubbornness. Holding your arms open at your sides make you feel more approachable.
Don’t Give A Weak Handshake
This doesn’t mean go for a death grip here, but a solid handshake will go a long way. A weak handshake conveys a lack of authority and confidence.
Don’t Nod Excessively
Nodding your head in agreement once or twice is fine, but just stop there. Excessive nodding will make you come across as inattentive.
Don’t Have Bad Posture
Leaning back is considered arrogant, leaning forward is aggressive, and slouching is just plain lazy. Sitting tall in a neutral position is your best bet.
Don’t Fidget Around
Nothing positive comes from fidgeting. Playing with you hair or biting your nails will distract the interviewer from what you have to say, and makes you look distracted as well.
Don’t Watch The Clock
Checking your watch or looking at the clock during an interview is a clear sign of disrespect. This sends the message that you have better things to do, or that you are wasting your time.
Don’t Roll Your Eyes
This may seem unnecessary to cover, but some people roll their eyes so often that it becomes second nature. Rolling your eyes is a blatant sign of disrespect and can only hurt your chances.
Don’t Hold Your Hands Behind Your Back
Keeping your hands behind your back or in your pockets will make you come off as stiff. You are wanting to appear open and approachable — let your arms hang naturally.
Don’t Mismatch Your Expressions
When the tone of your voice doesn’t match the expressions on your face, you could be in trouble. Basically, if you are talking about what you are passionate about and your face is a blank slate, it won’t come off as genuine.
Don’t Invade Personal Space
Although it may seem like you are being serious and involved by really getting up close and personal with your interviewer, being too close can come off as threatening. Try to maintain an arms-length distance and maintain an upright posture for the best results.