Posture before the interview matters
Before you walk in the door: lift your head, straighten your back, tighten your abs and smile. This way you will make a confident and friendly first impression on your potential colleagues. If you have to wait, stand with an upright posture and a friendly expression on your face.
Chewing gum and cell phones have no place here
Chewing gum is considered a fault in formal situations. Why does it have such a negative effect on body language? Etiquette experts say the following:
“If chewing gum is a part of your daily life, we recommend the following: Observe people who chew gum in conversational situations. What effect do they have on you? We’re sure you’ll draw the right conclusions in the future”
Leave your stuff on the left!
Pro tip: If you have a bag with you, hold it in your left hand or place it on your left. That way, you can quickly and confidently offer your right hand when you are called for the meeting.
A fitting greeting
Before you meet the person you are going to talk to, make sure your hands are clean and dry. For this purpose, it is good to have a handkerchief in your pocket. This way, you’ll be able to dry your hands even if you don’t have a chance to go to the bathroom between your arrival and the interview. When reaching out, keep an arm’s length away. The handshake should be firm but not overly dominant. Look your partner in the eye and introduce yourself by your full name.
Comfort comes later
Sit when the person you are talking to invites you to sit or when they sit down themselves. If you have a choice, choose an upright chair. You should sit upright and lean slightly forward. This is difficult on a comfortably upholstered sofa.
Foot position matters
Crossed legs can cause many problems. Your legs are restless. One leg goes numb. You involuntarily turn your body away from the person you are talking to. It is best to keep your legs straight together and be careful not to sit with your legs apart.
In tranquility is strength
If you usually gesture a lot with your hands, you can do it more calmly. Calm is an important word here. Flailing your arms makes you look nervous, as does running your hands over your face. A quality pen and a nice notebook can help keep your hands calm.
Don't flirt
Eye contact is a minefield. It is very important to actively seek eye contact when speaking. Otherwise, you may appear insecure and scared. However, there is such a thing as too much of a good thing. Excessive eye contact can be perceived as flirting or intimidation. The rule is: direct eye contact is appropriate for 30-60% of the conversation.
Whole body listening
Active listening makes you a more empathetic listener. Turning your body towards the interviewer, looking at them while listening, and taking notes should all be within the normal range.
With these tips, you are guaranteed to perform well in the interview.
