Body language

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Poor body language can derail an interview regardless of how confident and well-spoken you are. Body language is as much a part of your communication style as what you say verballyâit's really about how you say it. Impressions are made within seconds of reviewing body language.

Consider the first step to entering an interviewâthe handshake. While it may take less than 10 seconds to complete a handshake, in that time, the interviewer has already developed an impression of your character based on eye contact and the firmness of your shake. A weak handshake and lack of eye contact can leave the impression you are timid and insecure. A sincere and firm handshake with eye contact expresses professionalism and confidence. An overpowering handshake with a fixed gaze may come across as overconfident and arrogant. So, be cautious with your next handshake and start the interview off with a positive impression.

In an interview, body language is present from head to toe. Consider the following...

Posture

Whether you are sitting or standing, your posture projects a level of confidence and engagement in the conversation. When one slumps, it implies to the interviewer a lack of confidence and interest. Sitting stiff as a rock implies nervousness and it creates an uncomfortable situation for building rapport. Sitting at the tip of the chair implies you don't want to be there. Lying back on the chair with your ankle on top of your other knee may appear unprofessional and too relaxed. In general, crossing your arms and legs may be interpreted as building a barrier.

To project professionalism, confidence, and engagement, consider sitting on the chair with your lower back touching or close to the back panel while leaning 10 degrees forward. Keep your hands relaxed in your lap or on the table, and your feet grounded on the floor. When standing, avoid crossing your arms or placing them in your pockets. The point is to project a balanced posture that is not limp or overly stiff.

Eye Contact

Eye contact allows you and the interviewer to connect beyond words alone. However, there is a fine balance between good eye contact and when eye contact becomes a weird gaze or stare that can make the other person feel uncomfortable. When you stare without having breaks in between, a casual conversation can come across as a lecture.

Whether you are listening or speaking, maintain eye contact with your interviewer for a couple of seconds at a time (no more than 7 to 10 seconds) and then glance away before returning eye contact again. If you are looking down to take notes, look up occasionally, especially when it appears a special point is being made or when you are asked a question.

Voice

Speed, tone, and pitch combined make an impression. Talking too fast can be hard to understand and appear as nervousness. When your tone projects apology or defense, you can come across as unconfident and insecure. When you don't make changes between your tone and pitch, you can sound monotone, making it more difficult for the other person to stay engaged.

Learn to take control of your voice. If you are nervous, it can come across in your pitch, so take a breath to help you relax before speaking. Be conscious of your tone and pitch to offer variation and to help emphasize certain points.

Bobblehead

Man with good body language answers a question during a job interview

Some people have a tendency to bobble their heads as a gesture of agreement, but when you nod in excess during a conversation, it becomes a distraction and can be interpreted as though you are agreeing on everything for the sake of wanting to please. You can lose credibility in such instances.

To avoid appearing like a bobblehead, nod occasionally to show you are still engaged and have control over how you nod. You can also tilt your head slightly to the side as though you are trying to listen more carefully as another way to show you are engaged.

Extremities

Woman with good body language smiles during a job interview

There are people who do certain things out of habit, such as flaring their arms while talking, twirling their hair, playing with a pen in hand, rocking back and forth on a chair, and shaking or thumping their feet. Many of these actions occur unconsciously; however, these are distractions to the person you are speaking to and may be perceived as signs you are bored or have trouble focusing. Some people also touch their nose or face frequently when they are nervous. An interviewer may perceive this as a sign you are not being totally honest.

Be conscious of what you do with your hands, legs, and feet and that will help you take control of your movements. Be aware of your own body language and also read your interviewer's body language to give you hints about how they are responding to you.

The interview may start very formal, but as you both become acquainted with one another, the mood may relax and you may adapt your body language to reflect what you sense from the interviewer. There is no absolute rule around body language, but it would be wise to avoid any chance of being misinterpreted.

You can properly prepare your body language before heading into an interview by watching yourself in the mirror act out how you introduce yourself and speak. Another helpful way is to have a friend or colleague interview you and record the entire session. Review how you present yourself and become aware of problem areas to adjust before your interview.

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What Your Interview Body Language Reveals About …

4 Things Interviewers Rate You On

You want to demonstrate you have the experience and skills for the job. But what makes one candidate more favorable than the other when they both have the same type of experience and skills?

When this is the case, it often comes down to a job seeker's performance during the interview.

As a job seeker, it's important to understand what other areas interviewers consider when reviewing each candidate as a total package. Here are four areas interviewers rate you on...

Enthusiasm

Employers want a job candidate with a "can-do" attitude and who has a strong desire to work for the company. Make sure that comes through in your communication, from your cover letter, phone interview, and in-person interview to the thank-you note.

Throughout the entire process, you want to make it known that you remain highly interested in the position. When you are meeting in person, you can also use your body language to help demonstrate engagement and interest.

Communication Skills

A recruiter/hiring manager has an engaging conversation with a job candidate during an interview

A top trait that employers seek for every position is strong communication skills. Your ability to articulate what experience and skills you have to offer and how they can contribute to your future employer's success has to come through if you want to impress the interviewer.

People hire people they like so your job in the interview is to turn it into a conversation and be prepared to ask questions during the process. Keep in mind that a key part of communicating effectively has to do with intonation and body language. When your voice exhibits excitement and you're leaning forward and making eye contact, that is stressing to the interviewer you're communicating something of importance.

Technical Skills

The first thing an employer will do is determine if you have the requisite skills and experience for the position. Make sure you have studied the job posting, researched people at the company on LinkedIn, and know what they are looking for and how you can contribute.

When answering interview questions, use the "Experience + Learn = Grow" model to give examples of your key skill sets in action. This includes outlining a professional experience related to the question, talking about what you learned from the experience, and how you grew from it professionally.

Overall Fit For The Position

Professional man working in a casual environment attends a meeting

You need to demonstrate that you are a "good fit" for their organization. This is measured in two ways: your skill and competencies and your demeanor and personality. Once you have shown that your technical skills are there, they want to see if people will want to work with you. Don't be afraid to let some of your personality come out.

The interviewer wants to see your sense of humor, confidence level, and whether you come across as honest or fake. The right combination of all those qualities will inform the interviewer if you're the right fit for the job, and also for the company's culture.

So, while you prepare for your interview to demonstrate you have what it takes to do the job, don't forget to impress the interviewer with these other factors that will differentiate you from the other job candidates who may have similar experience and skills. The more prepared you are for the job interview, the more confident you will be, and the more likely you'll make a great impression on the hiring manager.

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4 Things Interviewers Rate You On

3 Things To “Listen” For During Job Interviews

Like any other conversation, a job interview is a two-way street. It's as much about how well you listen as it is about what you say. And there's more to listening than simply hearing another person's words.

How interviewers sit, how they ask their questions, and what they do while listening to your answers can tell you an awful lot about the direction the interview is taking.

Of course, during a job interview, the hiring manager is in the driver's seat, so it's critical that you're able to read their cues. There are some general ways to figure out whether someone's paying attention to you or not. Are they making eye contact? Leaning forward as you speak? Nodding their head? All good things. But often the message someone conveys is contained in ways that are more subtle.

Here are three things to "listen" for during the job interview...

Listen For The Hidden Question

Interesting woman smiles and listens during a job interview

No job interview question is simple. In every case, the employer is looking not only for insights into your skills and experience, but also for hints about how your thought process works, how committed you'll be to your job, and how well you'll fit into the company's culture. Keep that in mind as you listen to each question.

If a hiring manager asks you to describe a time you met an aggressive deadline, for instance, they're also trying to get a feel for how well you work under pressure and how you work with others under less-than-ideal circumstances. It's not simply a question about nuts and bolts.

So, don't limit your answer to the obvious. Remember that during job interviews, explaining how you got to a particular point can be as important as showing that you got there in the first place.

Listen To Get Their Attention

Young woman listens attentively during a job interview

Obviously, you want to keep the manager's attention during the job interview. Even if they're one of those people who constantly check their cell phone while they talk, you can pick up hints about whether they're engaged in the conversation.

The most obvious clue is whether they're doing more than simply asking questions. A true dialogue is more than a Q&A. It involves stories, comments, and answersâfrom both sides.

If the hiring manager seems to be following a script, break up his or her routine by asking questions yourself. For example, after answering that query about meeting deadlines, ask if the hiring manager's ever been in a similar situation, or whether you can expect to face tight deadlines as a part of the job at his company. If they ask for your opinion on a recent industry news event, inquire about their views after you've given them your own.

You want the interview to be a true conversation. A hiring manager is more apt to remember the candidate they engaged with than those who simply allowed themselves to be led through their checklist of questions.

Listen To Keep Them Focused

Pay attention to signs that you're losing your audience whenever you need more than a few sentences to answer a question. Some clues are obvious. The hiring manager's eyes may wander, for example. Others are more subtle. Someone who's been sitting forward may shift and begin rubbing the arm of their chair with their fingers.

Picking up on someone's wandering attention will depend a lot on how well you read them. People differ, after all. A hiring manager who's comfortable multitasking may be carrying on an engaged conversation even if they're checking their email while they talk.

The trick is to look for signs that the rhythm has been broken. For example, if the multitasker allows pauses to creep into the conversation while they absorb an email message, chances are you need to refocus their attention.

Though the hiring manager asks the questions during an interview, the job seeker has plenty of opportunities to direct the conversation. Always be on the lookout for hints about the interviewer's interests and engagement. You'll find them in what they do, as well as in what they say.

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3 Things To “Listen” For During Job …

Job interviews are typically your first chance to present your whole self to a company, so you want to put your best foot forward. It's time to impress your future employer with your experience and personality!

In addition to having great responses to the interviewer's questions and dressing to the nines, you need to think about...

1. Your "Likability" Factor

People want to hire people they like and think they could work with, for obvious reasons. So, your likability level is a huge factor in the job interview/hiring process.

Employers want to know you'll fit in with their "tribe" of employees. They don't want to throw off their company culture by hiring someone who's not a good fit.

Take steps to build rapport with your interviewer and meet people within the company. You'll stand out in the hiring process even before you go in for an interview if you've already connected with a few employees on LinkedIn.

2. Your Ability To Communicate Thoughts Effectively

Woman communicates her answers effectively in a job interview

When answering interview questions, it's important to communicate your thoughts clearly and confidently. Otherwise, you risk sounding unprepared or unconfident.

During job interviews, be concise and convey confidence when you speak. This is especially important when answering behavioral interview questions.

Remember, though, you want to come across as self-assured and humble, not overconfident and cocky. The best way to do this is by following the "Experience + Learn = Grow" model. Learning how to answer interview questions with this framework will help you effectively communicate why you're a great fit for the position, both in terms of experience and personality.

3. Your Body Language

Man has negative body language during a job interview

Communication isn't limited to speech. You need to be aware of your body language too. If you're fidgeting, swiveling in your chair, slouching, or not making eye contact with your interviewer, it can make you seem unconfident and even untrustworthy.

Doing a mock interview with a trusted colleague is a good way to practice your answers to interview questions and perfect your body language. Are you sitting up straight? Are you making enough eye contact?

Your mock interviewer can give you feedback on what to work on so your body language doesn't send the wrong message on the big day.

So, be aware! Don't waste this precious opportunity to impress a potential employer. Make sure you go into job interviews knowing what you're doing!

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3 Things You DON’T Think About During …

Interview Tips: Master Your Nonverbal Communication

If you are going to an interview, there are many things you will want to consider. Many people think that knowing how to accurately answer the questions is the only thing that needs to be practiced. In reality, you also need to master your nonverbal communication to demonstrate your best attributes to the interviewer.

There are a few things you will need to think about. Your nonverbal communication is one of the most important aspects of an interview. This includes factors such as your gestures, body language, facial expressions, and more. These communication signals are important because they send a multitude of messages to the interviewer. Many times, nonverbal communication is subconscious, but it is still something that people will notice. Just as you will control what you verbally say, you will want to control what you communicate nonverbally, too.

It is a good idea to have your verbal match your nonverbal communication. This means if you say you are confident that you can give the business what it needs because you have years of experience, you do not want to come off as timid, shy, and unsure of yourself. Instead, you want to exude confidence.

Here are a few interview tips for nonverbal communication in an interview:

Get Plenty Of Practice

One of the best things you can do is to practice your interview ahead of time. You can do this by yourself, though you will want to have a mirror or video recording so you can evaluate your communication signals, or with a friend via a mock interview. When practicing for a job interview, you should think about the things you appear to be saying nonverbally and think about how you can change them to give the impression you are looking for.

Be Mindful During Your Interview

You should be aware of how you are communicating during the interview, but be sure not to overthink and become distracted from the interview questions. For example, if you want to demonstrate your confidence, then you need to think about having excellent posture, keeping eye contact with your interviewer, and making sure to keep a calm demeanor.

Be Aware Of Your Hands

Man listens to a question during a job interview

A big issue many people face when they are in an interview is that they do not know what to do with their hands. Individuals should avoid fidgeting and touching their hair and face because the interviewer can read these communication signals negatively. These nervous movements and fidgets may be a sign of anything from uncertainty in your qualifications to lying about something.

It is also important to give the interviewer an open body position without crossing your arms, which shows that you are comfortable and open to discussion. By crossing your arms, you are sending the message that you are closed off, which makes an interviewer think you may have something to hide or feel negatively about the interview. You can keep your arms at your side or on your lap. Using your hands when you explain something is fine as well, and it is seen as a very open gesture to show your palms to the other individual while explaining.

Pay Attention To The Interviewer's Nonverbal Communication

Man shakes the hiring manager's hand before a job interview

While thinking about the right thing to say both verbally and nonverbally, you need to think about the message you are getting from the interviewer. For instance, if you see them lean back or look uncomfortable, you may be in their personal space. If the interviewer seems impatient or uncomfortable, you may want to try to explain yourself better or offer shorter and more concise answers.

There are many different aspects to think about with nonverbal communication and what it means in the business world. If you are finding that you are not having the success you want with an interview, you may find it helpful to take a class on nonverbal communication so you can achieve the results you are looking for.

Or you could join our FREE community. Itâs a private, online platform where workers, just like you, are coming together to learn and grow into powerful Workplace Renegades. More importantly, we have tons of resources inside our community that can help you prepare for your next job interview.

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Interview Tips: Master Your Nonverbal Communication

3 Most Important Things To Do In A Job Interview

A job interview can be a nerve-wracking experience, especially when you have been removed from the job market for an extended period of time. It is one thing to sell on paper with the resume and another thing to sell in person at the interview.

Regardless of whether you have been out of a job for an extended period of time, are looking to change careers, or are still employed and seeking a better opportunity, the key to conducting a job interview successfully is a result of a number of factors, and being aware of these factor plays a major role in how to prepare for an interview.

One of the more defining factors is the relationship you establish. People hire people they like. Even if one candidate is more qualified and experienced than another, without a good relationship there is a minimal chance of securing the job.

The same goes for referrals. When you are referred by an existing employee, your chances are much stronger than a candidate who applied simply as a result of finding the opportunity through a job posting.

So the question becomes this: how do you develop a strong enough relationship from a job interview to strengthen and lock in your chances at a job offer? Here are some things to keep in mind as you prepare for your job interview, and eventually go through with it.

Use Appropriate Body Language

What you don't say matters just as much as what you do say. Your body language and facial expressions inform an employer how engaged you are in the conversation and how interested you are in the opportunity. Smile, exhibit confidence, and listen carefully so you respond appropriately and build on the conversation.

Seek More Information

Woman researches the company before her job interview

Asking questions expresses to an employer that you are engaged in the conversation. Try to ask questions to probe for additional information. Research the company in your interview preparation and make a list of potential questions that you may want to ask.

In addition, while you're in the interview, instead of simply addressing what's asked of you, respond and follow up with a question of your own and turn the interview into a conversation. This expresses to the employer that you're interested in learning more.

Demonstrate You Are Up For The Challenge

Man shakes hands with the hiring manager after a job interview

There are challenges with every job. What is important to an employer is that you are up for the challenge and that you have the ability to succeed. Once again, research information as you're preparing for the interview by reviewing the company's website and social media. You will have a better understanding of what challenges or changes the company has recently been through, and how they may impact the position you are interested in.

Ask related questions during the interview to find out more. This informs an employer that you have come well-prepared for the interview. You can also take the opportunity to relay how you have experienced similar situations in past jobs and explain how you dealt with them.

The more confident and comfortable you are with yourself in the interview, the easier it will be for the employer to develop a strong rapport and relationship with you. This is not to say you sit back and relax as though you are sitting in your own living room. Instead, the point is to be open to conversation and for it to be developed with ease.

Consider a candidate sitting stiff, head down, and who is brief in response to conversation and questions asked. It makes it difficult for them as well as the employer to try to establish good rapport and a relationship. Don't let that be you!

We know how difficult it can be to feel confident in a job interview. If you're struggling to perform well in job interviews, we can help.

We'd love it if you joined our FREE community. It’s a private, online platform where workers, just like you, are coming together to learn and grow into powerful Workplace Renegades. More importantly, we have tons of resources inside our community that can help you prepare for your next job interview.

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