In preparation for a job interview, many will focus on brushing up on their industry knowledge and memorising the perfect answers. However, there is one other deal-breaker people tend to forget: body language. A slip up here and it could cost you the chance of securing that sought after role.
From a handshake to posture, body language plays a key role in how an interviewer perceives an individual (whether consciously or subconsciously). Unfortunately, even the most well-prepared candidates have the potential to unknowingly sabotage their chances by sending out the wrong non-verbal cues.
What are these non-verbal signs, and how can people seek to avoid partaking in incorrect signals? Guy Thornton, founder of PracticeAptitudeTests.com, has told Digital Journal the common body language mistakes people make, and shares his tips for turning one’s interview demeanour from hostile to hire-worthy.
Crossed arms
Thornton says: “Most of the time, we don’t cross our arms with the intention of being rude. It’s often an unconscious comfort mechanism, especially in a nerve-racking setting like an interview. However, try your best to avoid it. To an interviewer, closed body language can come across as defensive or suggest a negative attitude, even if you’re saying all the right things.”
Thornton recommends: “On the other hand, open posture shows that you’re engaged in the conversation. If you’re not sure what to do with your hands, rest them in your lap or place them on the table in front of you. This gives off the impression of calm confidence, even if you’re anxious on the inside.”
Avoiding eye contact
With staring, Thornton observes: “Eye contact is something many people struggle with day to day, and in an interview, it can feel even more challenging. While it might be tempting to stare at the floor, your CV, or even the ceiling, do your best to look at the interviewer. If there’s more than one person in the room, focus on making eye contact with whoever is speaking to you at the time.”
Instead, Thornton thinks: “Aim to strike a balance between maintaining consistent eye contact and not overdoing it. Steady, natural eye contact shows you’re engaged and present. In the weeks leading up to your interview, practise by maintaining eye contact during conversations with friends and family. It’ll feel awkward at first, but it’ll set you up brilliantly for the real thing.”
Slouched posture
With posture, Thornton cautions: “Guilty of slouching? At home, it’s fine, but in an interview, it can make you look tired, unconfident, or even bored. When you sit upright, you command attention, demonstrate confidence, and encourage people, often subconsciously, to listen to what you have to say.
This means, according to Thornton: “Sit upright and relax your shoulders. To go the extra mile, consider leaning in slightly to show your enthusiasm.”
Weak or overly firm handshake
With the customary greeting, Thornton thinks; “Virtually every interview starts with a handshake. To make an excellent first impression, strike the right balance between light and firm. As silly as it may seem, a limp handshake can make you appear withdrawn, whereas a bone-crushing handshake might come off as a little too aggressive.”
Hence: “To really make a great impression with your handshake, maintain a friendly grip, with eye contact and a smile.”
Lack of facial expression
With the overall approach, Thornton has picked up; “When our faces relax, we tend to look a little disgruntled unintentionally. Even if you’re excited on the inside, your face could be telling a whole different story. A natural smile, a nod in agreement, or even a raised eyebrow when intrigued, transforms you from a candidate to a person. Employers are looking for someone who fits in with the work culture just as much as someone who has the hard skills to excel in the role.
Thornton instead advises: “Facial expressions are the secret weapon that help you break through that barrier. Remember, your personality can’t shine through if your face isn’t part of the conversation.”
