Body Language Pointers During an Interview

Business - Jobs and Employment

By: SnowRose 10-Feb-2011

Introduction:

Every interviewer whether they are aware of it or not, are influenced by body language. Believe it or not, body language speaks volumes and can be an important factor in the decision to hire you.

Here are five pointers to keep in mind at your next interview:

Handshake

Have a strong, firm handshake - This demonstrates confidence and shows the interviewer you are ready to be taken seriously, but don't overdo the grasp or you might leave an obtrusive red mark. Yikes!

Chair Etiquette

First of all, don't assume to seat just anywhere; wait for the interviewer to instruct you as to where to sit - This demonstrates patience and consideration. Second, sit tall and straight in the chair; it's okay to rest in the back of the chair - if you sit on the edge of the seat, this may indicate nervousness and anxiety. For women, don't cross your legs. And men, don't leave your legs so wide apart or cross the ankle on top of the knee.

Distance

Try to maintain at least three feet from your interviewer. By keeping some space between you and the interviewer, you demonstrate calmness without seeming dis-interested in the job.

Physical Control

Try to avoid moving your hands - don't twirl your hair or twitch; try to remain calm and collected - clasp your hands to avoid them from going out of control.

Eye Contact

Try not to be too strong with the eye contact - only look directly at the interviewer for a few seconds while answering a question.

Final Thoughts

Take note of the interviewer's body language:

· If the interviewer shuffles with papers or looks at the clock while you're answering a question, then this may indicate disapproval of your answer.

· If the interviewer leans towards you while you're answering a question, then the interviewer is engaged and really listening to your answer.

· If the interviewer leans back in the chair, then the interviewer is judging your answer.

· When an interviewer pushes their hands together into a steeple-like movement, then a difficult question is coming up.

However, there is more to an interview than just body language. Practice answering those difficult questions and videotape yourself. You can play back the videotape and check out your body posture. Are you too slumped in the chair? Are you using too many hand gestures? Do you seem confident about yourself and your answers?

The next step is to understand how best to answer those difficult interview questions. The best way to prepare for this is to practice answering these types of questions. When you succeed at best answering those difficult questions, then you have the four things every interviewer is looking for.

Lastly, remember to have questions to ask the employer. In this way, you can get an insight into the ethics of the organization and its work environment.

Be sure to check out related links on how to answer difficult interview questions and key questions you should ask the interviewer.

Good luck!