Body Language During the Interview

Your body language communicates as much or more than your words during an interview.

A confident posture, proper eye contact and controlled gestures project confidence and professionalism, while signs of nervousness can detract from credibility.

It is crucial to be aware of your nonverbal language.

Posture: Sit upright but relaxed

Adopt an upright posture when sitting; this projects confidence and attentiveness. However, avoid stiffness.

Try to maintain a comfortable but upright posture, without slouching or looking slouchy.

Good posture also facilitates better breathing and voice projection.

Eye Contact: Key to connection

Maintaining eye contact with the interviewer is essential to establish a connection, demonstrate interest and convey confidence.

Avoid constantly looking down, at the ceiling or to the sides, as this can be interpreted as disinterest, insecurity or even lack of honesty.

If looking directly into the eyes is intimidating or makes you nervous, you can try looking between the interviewer's eyebrows or at the interviewer's cheek; the effect is similar without the direct intensity.

If there are multiple interviewers, direct your response primarily to the one who asked the question, but make brief eye contact with the others to include them.

Gestures: Avoid nervous movements.

Nervous movements can betray your anxiety and distract the interviewer. Be aware and try to avoid:

• Restlessly moving your legs or feet.
• Swaying in your chair.
• Constantly touching your face, hair or clothing.
• Playing with a pen, your fingers or any object.
• Scratching your head or other body parts.
• Keep your hands relaxed on your legs, the table or the folder you are carrying.
• Use natural gestures to emphasize your words, but avoid excessive movement.

Smile: Genuine and appropriate

A sincere smile when greeting and at appropriate times during conversation helps create a positive atmosphere and show you as a friendly and approachable person.

Don't force a constant smile, as it may seem unnatural, but use it to reinforce the connection and show your enthusiasm.

Summary

Your body language communicates as much or more than your words. A confident posture and controlled gestures project confidence, while signs of nervousness detract from credibility. Adopt an upright but relaxed sitting posture.

Maintaining eye contact with the interviewer is essential to establish a connection, demonstrate interest and convey confidence. Avoid constantly looking down or to the side. If you are intimidated, you can look between your eyebrows.

Be aware and avoid nervous movements that may betray your anxiety and distract the interviewer, such as fidgeting with your legs or fiddling with a pen. A genuine smile helps create a positive atmosphere.