Body Language During an Interview for Job Searchers

If you are currently searching for a job, a great way to add to your communication techniques is to be aware of your body language. It's hard to be confident when participating in an interview with a potential employer, so make sure you have correct eye contact, you eliminate the need to fidget and you appear open to the conversation. Following these tips will aid in elevating your confidence and keep you calm.

Most people will say that good eye contact is great in an interview, but do they ever tell you how much? You don't want to stare a person down, or make them feel uncomfortable if you have too much eye contact. A good rule of thumb is to match the amount of eye contact they give you. Don't let your eyes wander around the room, but also don't want to stare or seem like you are trying too hard. Stay confident and practice matching the other persons eye movements while having a conversation.

Everyone has a habit or two that they need to be aware of, when in an interview. Although we all fidget, it seems to make interviewers think that someone isn't paying attention to what is being said. Keep your hands and feet still while you talk, if you can't help but to fidget, then use some minimal hand gestures to explain something. Stay still in your chair and only change positions a few times so you don't look stiff.

Keep yourself open to the conversation at hand. If you hold your body open, then it sends a subconscious signal to your interviewer that you are willing to participate honestly, when they ask questions. Keep your arms and legs straight, but not too straight, never cross them. Keep your body turned toward your potential employer while being interviewed and during your exit. When walking away turn all the way around to give thanks for the interview.

One additional communication tip: come up with original words. Think how many times a boss has to hear:

"I look forward to hearing from you..."

"What do you think my chances are?

"Thank you for the opportunity."

"I await your phone call."

Don't be so confident that you are telling someone you expect to get the position, then you become arrogant or a copy cat, which are both bad.

Stay focused on the task at hand, be confident. Assess your body language every few minutes to make sure you are open and aware of the conversation. Respect your potential employer with eye contact and by eliminating your need to fidget, so they can see that you are a serious candidate.