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Whether you are aware of it or not, your body is sending out all sorts of cues to those you interact with. Hiring managers are often trained to pick up on these subtle messages that your body is sending during the interview. In fact, by the time you sit down for the actual interview, the employer has already collected a fair amount of information about you without you even speaking a word. So before the interview even gets underway, the employer is making judgment calls about the type of person you are.
It’s no secret that job interviews are nerve-wracking, especially if you feel the position is a much-needed stepping stone into a fulfilling product management career. Take a look at CareerAlley's interview resources to improve your interview skills and nail your next interview.
We should all be aware of our non-verbal cues—especially during the interview. By paying as much attention to our body language as we do to our interview answers, we will make sure our body is sending the right answers.
Overview
- Handshake: A firm, confident handshake sets a positive tone. It conveys professionalism and confidence. Avoid weak or overly strong handshakes as they can leave a negative impression.
- Facial Expressions: Smiling appropriately and maintaining a neutral expression when listening can convey friendliness and attentiveness. Avoid frowning or looking disinterested as it may send the wrong message.
- Gestures: Use hand gestures to emphasize points, but keep them controlled and natural. Overly exaggerated gestures can be distracting, while too few can make you appear stiff.
- Attire: Dressing appropriately for the interview shows respect for the company culture and the interviewer. Your choice of clothing can communicate professionalism and how seriously you take the opportunity.
- Personal Space: Respecting personal space during an interview is crucial. Standing or sitting too close can make the interviewer uncomfortable, while too much distance can seem to disengage.
- Silence: Knowing when to pause and allow for silence can be powerful. It gives the interviewer time to process your answers and shows that you are thoughtful and composed.
- Listening: Active listening involves nodding, making affirming sounds, and not interrupting. It shows that you value what the interviewer is saying and are engaged in the conversation.
- Breathing: Steady and calm breathing helps you stay relaxed and focused. Rapid or shallow breathing can indicate nervousness, while deep, controlled breaths can help maintain composure.
- Mirroring: Subtly mirroring the interviewer’s body language can create a sense of rapport. It shows that you are in sync with the conversation and can help build a positive connection.
- Appearance: Neat and professional grooming shows attention to detail and respect for the interview process. A well-groomed appearance can leave a lasting positive impression on the interviewer.
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First Impressions
First impressions are important; therefore make them good ones. When greeting the interviewer, offer them a smile, maintain eye contact, and offer a firm palm-to-palm handshake. Many candidates tense their bodies, including their faces, when they enter the interview. Plan where you intend to put your briefcase or purse. The floor is likely your best option, as you shouldn’t place them on your lap or on the table or desk where they may be a distraction. You want as few obstructions between you and the interviewer as possible.
Mastering the art of non-verbal communication can set you apart in interviews. Learn how gestures, attire, and even silence can speak volumes about your professionalism and confidence #JobInterview #InterviewTips #NonVerbalCommunication #CareerSuccessClick To TweetEye Contact
Eye contact is one of the most important verbal cues we send. Timing is everything with eye contact. Breaking eye contact with the interviewer too quickly may make us look unsure of ourselves or intimidated. Maintaining an excessive amount of eye contact or staring may make the interviewer uneasy. Instead, maintain eye contact for an extra second beyond what you would normally do with an acquaintance. That additional eye contact helps build a personal connection with the interviewer.
Posture
Our posture should be upright and neutral. Leaning forward too much may send the message that we are eager, but it may also appear as being overly aggressive to the interviewer. Leaning back may make us seem like we are sending the message that we are relaxed but in reality, it runs the risk of being interpreted as arrogance or laziness. Avoid crossing your arms or legs as this can make you appear defensive.
Body Language
Gestures are a natural part of communication. They enhance our conversation and convey our engagement and enthusiasm. When we are nervous, we tend to stop gesturing altogether or barely move at all. On the other hand, too much gesturing draws attention away from the conversation. The trick is to strike a balance. Refrain from overdoing gestures or the opposite, hiding your hands. If standing, let your arms hang comfortably at your sides, instead of in your pockets or behind your back.
For some, the biggest challenge will be in containing their nervous energy. Touching your face or hair or jostling coins in your pockets is a distraction and takes attention away from what you are saying.
Practice
Practice for your interview at home in front of a mirror. Maintain eye contact with yourself as you rehearse answers and pay particular attention to your gestures and posture. With a little practice, you can control what your body is saying and feel more confident in the interview.
It’s no secret that job interviews are nerve-wracking, especially if you feel the position is a much-needed stepping stone into a fulfilling product management career. Take a look at CareerAlley's interview resources to improve your interview skills and nail your next interview.
