We’ve shared with you the importance of dressing properly for your interview, but did you know that your body language also plays a vital role during the interview process?

Most people are unaware of the gestures and movements expressed through body language during an interview, and that’s not a good thing since up to 80% of what we are trying to say is conveyed through this.

You want to show your interviewer that you’re genuinely interested in their job opening, and that you worked hard on writing your cover letter and resume, so here are a few ways you can make sure that your interview body language is positive and confident:

• Always walk in with a warm and friendly smile.
• Give a firm handshake (if possible, mirror the strength of the interviewer).
• If you have a jacket that you need to take off, do so before you take a seat.
• Get comfortable in your chair sit up straight and keep your feet flat on the ground.
• Point your knees and upper body towards the interviewer to show them that you are interested.
• Keep your voice at a comfortable level and be conscious of how fast you are talking.
• Use your hands to help express what you are saying (this exudes confidence).

These are all things your body language should do during an interview, but what about things you should absolutely NOT do?

Take this advice:

• Don’t fold your arms or legs while talking (looks defensive to an interviewer).
• Don’t stare off into space when thinking of an answer.
• Don’t slouch in your chair.
• Don’t say the word “um” too many times.
• Don’t fidget, shake your legs, twiddle your thumbs or touch your face (reveals your nervousness).

One thing you should always do during an interview is maintain eye contact. This shows the interviewer that you are focused on them and what they are saying, and that you mean business.

When the interview is complete, you should give another firm handshake and always leave with a smile.

Even if you think things went wrong, if you at least conveyed that you had confidence then that makes a positive impression on an employer.

Check out our other resource article on:

What to Do After an Interview

How to Write a Cover Letter

How to Write a Thank You Letter