What is Your Body Language Saying?

When attending an interview , you usually pay much attention to what you are going to say. But do you know words that are not spoken also play a part in the interview process? The way you greet, the way you walk, the way you sit – represents words that your body “speaks”. By “listening to” your body language, the interviewer can get clues about your attitude and personality.

Do you want to know the power of unspoken words? Let’s take a moment to listen to what your body says:

Handshakes

A job interview starts and ends with a handshake. Don’t overlook this brief moment of physical touch. It can tell the interviewer something about you. Firm handshake demonstrates confidence; excessive strong handshake reflects that you are an overly aggressive person; limp hand shake signals low confidence.

Facial Expressions

To show enthusiasm in your career, it is important to create energy in your facial expression. Make sure you get enough sleep to keep your eyes bright. Also, wearing a mild smile is a good way to show you are a happy and positive person.

Posture

When walking into the interview room, stand and walk straight with shoulders slightly back. Walk with a moderate speed.

When you are seated, sit straight and lean forward a little bit to show your interest. Lean back in your seat may seem that you look too casual.

Hands and Arms

During the interview, put your hands on your laps or keep them relaxed at the side, making yourself look comfortable. Hand gestures should be limited as it might become distracting.

Don’t cross your arms since it seems defensive and gives the impression that you want the interviewer to stay away from you.

Eye Contact

Throughout the interview process, you should maintain firm eye contact without staring. When you are speaking, constant eye contact shows that you are confident. When you are listening, it shows that you are interested in what the interviewer is saying. If there are more than one interviewer, give them all some eye contact. Avoid looking away as it indicates nervousness, tension, insecurity, and a lack of interest.

When the interviewer is talking, it is wise to give some positive responses such as nodding your head.

Non-verbal signals can help present yourself as a confident, enthusiastic and engaged candidate. To improve your body language, you must be aware of your body language. Notice how you sit, how you stand, how you use your hands and legs, what you do while you are talking to someone. Try to correct the negative ones by practicing in front of the mirror until you can do it naturally.

Source: JobsDB HK