How to conduct your body language in an interview

It only takes a matter of seconds for someone to form a subconscious opinion of you, so you have to make sure that you make that first impression count. When going for an interview, there are some key things that you can do to improve your chances as soon as you walk through the door.

Here are some of the best things you can do to wow the interviewer and come across as a strong-willed, confident person.

When you first walk in

Walk in confidently, it may sound complicated but make sure you hold your head high, shoulders back and don't creep through the doorway. Smile! If you look nervous, they will immediately get that impression of you - but if you smile, you will appear approachable and likeable (and that's great!). Here in the UK, it is customary to deliver a handshake when you first meet an interviewer, so make sure that you give a firm shake to ensure that you don't come across as submissive or weak. For other cultures, bowing or other forms of greeting are used, so make sure you are knowledgeable about the customs of the country you are in before attending your interview.

When you're talking/listening

Once you've sat down, do not slouch. Sit up straight and keep your arms out of your lap so that you have an 'open' body language. You can use your hands for gesturing but don't go over the top - and definitely keep your hands away from your face, it can make you look nervous or even make you seem like you're making things up (touching your face is often a sign of someone who is lying). An important thing to note is that you need to balance eye contact - you don't want to stare and look intimidating, but if you have too little eye contact then you will appear as timid, remember to blink - but don't blink too much!

If you're in a video interview

It's not uncommon in 2022 to be part of a video interview, not only due to COVID-19, but also just because of the advancements of technology and the ease of being in your own home. Most of the same rules apply whilst in a video interview, open body language, confidence, friendliness - but eye contact is a little tricky. A good tip is to position the interviewers video feed as close to your webcam as possible, that way you will appear to be keeping eye contact and you can also judge their reactions to what you are saying, however if this is not possible then make sure you are looking directly into the camera when speaking so that they feel like you are looking at them.

Obviously, good body language alone won't get you the job - you still have to prepare appropriately, but it will make a big difference on how the interviewer sees you, and how much they like you - a good employee is one who is a good cultural fit for the company, and they're not going to want to hire someone who does not come across as friendly and approachable.

If you have enjoyed the read, gained some value, don’t keep it to yourself - share, like and subscribe to our fortnightly tips, tricks and tools for your career journey.