The interview process can be a nerve-wracking event, even for the calmest and most confident candidates. Needless to say, there are many aspects to cover during the interview process that may be critical to the overall decision of whether you get the job or not.

An overlooked portion of the interview process is your body language. Non-verbal communication can play a big role during your meeting with a potential employer and should be practiced along with all other parts of the interview. We’ve shared helpful advice that demonstrates how you can maintain proper body language in your next interview so you stand out as a poised candidate.

Be Mentally Prepared

Mentally preparing for the interview is a key component of the process. Psyching yourself out and imagining unrealistic scenarios is not the way to go. Instead, follow the preparation your recruiter went through with you. Make sure you have enough information about the employer, you know who you are meeting with, you understand what role your position will play in the organization, and anything else that may be necessary. Being mentally prepared will allow you to walk into the interview with confidence and set the right tone with your body language.

Follow Directions

It is very common, if not guaranteed, that you will be given steps on what to do when you arrive at the employer’s workplace. The directions should include asking for a particular employee and then filling out the necessary paperwork in the lobby. It is very important to be assertive, but not overbearing when entering the office. If you have to wait, avoid leaning back or throwing your arm over a chair. You don’t want to make yourself appear too comfortable, as this can come off as arrogant. Make sure to turn your phone off before entering so you are not tempted to use it once you enter the office. Once all the preliminary phases are complete, wait patiently until you meet with the interviewer.

Make a Good First Impression

First impressions to an interviewer are critical so it is important to make direct eye contact when introducing yourself, along with a firm handshake. Establishing that initial handshake is a confidence booster for not only yourself but also for the person you are meeting. Also, be sure to smile and greet the interviewer pleasantly. This, along with a strong handshake, will show the interviewer that you are self-assured, that you understand the importance of a first impression, and that you are ready to take on the interview.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

Once in the interview, set your purse, handbag, or briefcase to your side on the floor. You may put a portfolio of needed documents on the table neatly if they are going to be presented later. Once the interview begins and you start to answer questions, be weary of your hand gestures as you do not want to look frantic. Don’t let your gestures be too expressive as they can distract the interviewer from what you are trying to say. Keep your motions to a small space as it will show that you are comfortable and calm with explaining your answers.

Answer Questions Eloquently

The context or substance of the interview usually relates to the role you applied for and how it complies with your experience. Your answers should be concise and fluent. If you start to ramble on in your answer, then the main theme of the question asked will go astray. Excess talking often leads to rambling, which can deter your interviewer. To help stay on point and be concise in your answers, practice answering questions at home in front of a mirror so you can see how you look. This way, you can see any body language adjustments you need to make.

Exit the Interview Respectfully

Once you have concluded the interview, the departure is very important as well. Upon exiting the interview room, allow the interviewer to lead you back to the lobby or exit. Shake the hand of your interviewer one last time, as well as anyone who helped you with paperwork or that brought you to the interview room. Thank them for their time and express your readiness for the next step, including answering any other questions they may have. When leaving, do not try to read the body language of the people who interviewed you. They will try not to divulge any information leaning one way or another so do not dwell on any aspect that you may deem negative.

Successful Body Language.pngIf you are prepared, remain calm, and answer questions succinctly, you will have nothing to worry about during an interview. Take account of your current body language and use this advice to make any necessary improvements in order to be successful during the interview process.

 

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