Interviews are all about making a solid impression on the interviewer. From the moment you walk in the office door, your interview has begun. Though it is solid advice in any circumstance, being polite and courteous to everyone you meet in an office building could be vital to your success. This includes the doorman, security guard, receptionist, literally everyone. And a big part of that is spoken through your body language; how you are carrying yourself, the hand gestures you make, and even the rate of your eye movements. This is why body language is important in an interview setting.
Know What Your Body Language Means
Before understanding the importance of your body language, it is first important to understand what your body language means. There are various signals you can send to your interviewers that can display confidence, know-how, and leadership.
To begin with, always remain relaxed in your seating position. Lean back in your chair and maintain an open gesture with your hands (either at your sides or in use during the conversation, never crossed at your chest). This will show that you have control of your actions and have confidence in the room and interview setting. You can function effectively under pressure. By leaning forward, not only do you signal to the interviewers you are uncomfortable, but you signal yourself, too. When leaning forward, you trigger a release of cortisol, the “fight or flight” hormone in your brain, and that will leave you feeling on edge during your interview.
A lot can be said about you in regards to how to look and feel in an interview. Your body can easily communicate these messages. That is why it is vitally important for you to know what you are communicating to others.
Why Body Language is Important in an Interview
Body language is important because the majority of our communication signals come from how we speak with our bodies. While oral language, including intonation, pitch, clarity, and other aspects of speaking are important to know and understand how they impact you, they pale in comparison to body language. According to one study, cited by the UK Career Fair website, up to 55% of our communicative signals are shared by our body. That is not a figure to take lightly.
Body language can signal a host of communication points to observant interviewers. Aside from the previously discussed confidence, body language can also show enthusiasm, perception, sincerity, and cultural appropriateness and compatibility. This type of communication is easily overlooked by a highly qualified candidate, but is often done so at their own risk.
Important Body Signs
There are a variety of body language signs that are important in an interview that all interviewees should master. First and foremost among them is the handshake. While there are plenty of guides for how to give a good handshake, the bottom line is that they need to be firm and confident, not too long and not too short. Likewise, other things like posture have already been covered, but eye contact, shifting of weight from side to side, and other motions can all play a big part in how you are perceived in an interview setting.
As a side note, one of the most effective forms of communication is also the breath control you exhibit. Be sure to take deep breaths, especially if asked tough questions, and take them slowly. Don’t get out of breath by just talking.
With this, hopefully your next interview goes a little bit smoother. Understanding why body language is important in an interview setting is vital to having success in your career, so don’t let it slip past you.
