Body Language for the Interview
You might be saying all the right things, but if your body language is not appropriate then there are chances that you are giving a negative impact on the interviewer. Therefore, it is important for you to improve your body language.
o The moment you enter the interview room, the interviewers start scanning your personality. Avoid adjusting your clothes and hair while walking in. Tidy up before you walk in.
o Greet everyone with an eye contact with each panel member.
o When you extend a handshake, do so with your palm facing upwards. This indicates honesty and sincerity.
o Take your seat only when you are offered to sit. Sit comfortably and avoid leaning backwards as this indicates arrogance and boredom. At the same time leaning forward may indicate nervousness. Sit with both feet on the ground and do not cross your legs.
o Take control of your gestures. Do not nod your head too many times. This indicates that you are desperate to agree with the panel. Avoid looking down as it signals judgmental and negative attitude.
o Maintaining eye contact is shows confidence. Hold eye contact for at least 10 seconds before you look at another panel member. But do not stare as it can be intimidating.
o Crossing your arms indicate defensiveness or closed mind. Keep your hands on your lap or knees, but do not grip them tightly as is indicates you are tense.
o Scratching your neck, rubbing your nose or eyes indicates that you don t believe in what you are saying.
Once the interview is over, do not let go of your composure. Collect your belongings calmly, shake hands with the leading panel member if not with everyone else and leave with a smile. A confident goodbye is equally important to improve the impression.
