Do’s and Don’ts – Body Language in Interviews

Your body language is very important during interviews as it can send out a good impression about you if your body language is positive, such as showing personality traits like confidence, engagement, interest, seriousness and professionalism. On the other hand, negative body language may show you in poor light by giving the interviewers a negative impression, such as being unprepared, insecure and unfriendly.

Do’s

Here are some examples of positive body language:

• Smile – Smiling sends out a message that you are cheerful and optimistic.

• Eye contact – Making direct eye contact conveys that you are confident and that you know what you are saying. 

• Sitting posture – Sitting straight yet relaxed shows your confidence and readiness for the interview. Leaning in slightly towards the interviewer  shows that you are interested and focused.

• Head nodding – Nodding your head at the right moment demonstrates that you agree with the speaker and are listening attentively.

• Handshake – Giving a firm handshake indicates self-confidence and interest.

Don’ts

Here are examples of negative body language:

• Sitting posture – Slouching indicates that you are not fully focused or interested while sitting on the edge of the chair demonstrates that you are too anxious or trying hard to understand the interviewer.

• Fidgeting – Tapping your fingers shows that you are growing impatient. Touching your ear or nose often can convey confusion.

• Bad habits – Biting your nails signifies nervousness and shaking your legs gives the impression that you are nervous.