Non-Verbal Communication

Even if you are not saying a word, your body is constantly talking during an interview. Non-verbal communication is powerful, even if we are not always conscious of it. Here are some tips on how to make the best non-verbal impression.

First impression

A first impression is made in the first 60 seconds you meet someone and this impression is difficult to reverse. To make a good first impression in an interview situation:

1. Offer a firm handshake, smile and make eye contact. This expresses that you are happy to be there and have confidence in yourself.
2. Make friendly small talk right away. Establish a rapport with pleasant conversation about something positive or complimentary to the company or the interviewer. This displays further confidence and ease.
3. You have to look your best. Your clothes should be appropriate for the company or industry you are applying to, erring on the side of conservative. When in doubt, always go with the conservative option on dressing and jewelry or other accessories.
4. Be listening carefully from the moment you get there. Don’t assume that just because the formal interview has not begun that what is being said is not important. Be attentive to the interviewer at all times and maintain natural eye contact.
5. Be patient. If there seems to be a delay in starting the interview, you must act as if you have all the time in the world. You want to give the impression you are there solely for their convenience and assure them that you can stay as long as is needed.

Your body language during the interview

1. Hands- Rest them loosely in your lap or on the table in front of you. If you are a fidgeter when you get nervous, remove everything you can fidget with from reach. This includes if you tend to play with an earring or your hair when you get nervous. If that is the case, wear your hair up or don’t wear earrings at all. If a pen is the culprit, put it out of reach until you actually need it. Fidgeting gives the impression you are not listening or that you are bored.
2. Legs – Nervousness also comes across in fidgety legs. Cross them at the ankle or put both feet flat on the floor.
3. Posture – Always maintain straight posture, as slouching indicates you are lazy or not paying attention. Observe the interviewers posture and maintain something similar if appropriate.
4. Eyes- Hold eye contact whenever possible. Using direct eye contact for more than 10 seconds at a time is not advised, but a brief glance away and then back to holding eye contact is a good idea. It keeps you and the interviewer connected. Looking down or away can indicate insincerity or uncertainty.
5. Voice – Keep your voice natural with varying tone and pitch. Don’t forget to breathe before you answer a question! Control any nervous laughter you may develop and avoid filling the air with “like” or “um” phrases. Practice with someone before the interview if this is a problem for you.

Keep these tips in mind and you will give off the right impression so that your body language and the words you are speaking work together to you get a job.

By: Becky Papp