Behaviour and Body Language during a Job Interview
Job interviews are always slightly daunting and we’ve all had at least one interview experience that we’d much rather forget. However, no matter how nervous you are about attending that big interview, it pays to think about your behaviour and body language as this can have a significant impact on whether or not you get the job.
First impressions count
As you will no doubt already know, the first few seconds of any meeting are crucial, so you need to make sure you make a good first impression. The interviewer will probably be expecting you to be at least slightly nervous, but they’ll also be looking to see how you handle the situation.
Some people like to do calming breathing exercises before they go into a job interview as this helps them to relax and overcome any debilitating nerves. Remember to smile and be confident – and remember that you are there for a reason. The interviewer must have liked your initial application or you wouldn’t be where you are. They think you’re a good candidate and they’ll want you to do well; make sure you prove them right.
Think about how you sit
Most of the time, we don’t really think that hard about how we sit – it’s just something we do. However, in job interviews, make sure you don’t appear too closed off or too relaxed. Sitting hunched in on yourself can betray nerves and make the interviewer feel uncomfortable as it can make you appear more reluctant or as though you don’t really want to be there.
While most people’s big issue with job interviews is nerves, other people are at the other end of the spectrum. Confidence is, of course, a good thing, but there is a chance that it can come across as arrogance. Appearing to be too relaxed in the way you sit is one indicator; interviewers like to know you feel comfortable talking to them, but they also like you to appear professional.
It sounds obvious, but make sure you’re sitting comfortably before you begin. Sit up straight, hold your head up and don’t be afraid to look the interviewer in the eye.
Sell yourself
Whenever you apply for graduate jobs or any other position, you’re always told to sell yourself. A lot of this is taken care of in your choice of answers and what you decide to tell the interviewer. However, you also sell yourself in your behaviour and body language.
For example, if you’re constantly fiddling with paper on the desk or twisting your hands in your lap or looking at the clock in the corner of the room, it isn’t going to come across well. Similarly, if you’re too brash in your gestures and over-the-top enthusiastic, this can also count against you, although for different reasons.
Self-assurance can be a hard thing to convey through your body language, but telling yourself that you have just as much right to be in that interview as anyone else can help you to relax. Getting job interviews exactly right can take time, so practice on an impartial person if you can so they can point out what you need to work on. It might not come straight away, but we’ve all been there – a little bit of practice and you should be well on your way to landing that amazing role.
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