O.K, now for some do's and don'ts on the body
language front, as far as you are concerned, during the
interview;-
Leaning
Forward
- This is a good one. It shows you are listening and
interested, and will send positive vibes to the interviewer.
Nodding in
Agreement
- Again, a good one to use. As before, this shows interest and
attention. It is also very positive as it clearly signals that
you are agreeing with the interviewer. You can use this when
asking questions of a closed nature, for example, "You do want
to do this, don't you?" and nod as you say the question. You
will often find this produces the positive response you are
looking for.
Head
Tilting
- Tilting to the side shows a positive response. For example,
if you are listening intently, tilting the head to the side will
show your interest. Beware, tilting the head down will indicate
disinterest or disapproval.
Stroking
your Cheek
- This indicates deep thought, and is a useful tool if you need
some time to think in an interview. Holding, or stroking your
chin will give the same messages.
Opening
your Palms
- This will be seen as a gesture of honesty. Again, you must be
(or at least sound) sincere when using this gesture. If you use
this when lying, other body language will give you away, for
sure.
You also need to be aware of some of the things
to try and avoid;-
Arms
Crossed
- This can mean one of two things. Either, you are being
defensive, or aggressive. In an interview, this is a common way
to react to pressure tactics. Try to maintain an open posture.
It can also indicate nervousness.
Folding
Arms
- This indicates one of two things. Depending on the situation,
it can be construed that you are being defensive, or
alternatively, if there is some degree of tension, it could show
that you are about to go on the attack.
Head Down
- This indicates a negative or disapproving response to what is
being said. It can also show a total lack of interest.
Whatever, it will be seen as a major negative if repeated too
often in an interview. The interviewer may well not realise
why, but he will feel negative towards you, if you allow your
head to go down too often. You will also lose the benefit of
eye contact and the ability to read the eyes of the interviewer.
Hands
Behind your Head
- Indicates you are feeling superior. It may just be read as
feeling relaxed, and is not necessarily a bad thing,
occasionally, in an interview, but you will be seen as too smug
if you maintain this pose too much during an interview. Use
with extreme care.
Pointing
Finger (at interviewer)
- This will be seen as an attacking posture. No matter what you
say, if you point at the interviewer it will be felt as an
aggressive move. Avoid doing this.
Leaning
Back
- This is a defensive ploy, and will be seen as so. It is a
natural tendency to do this if you are under verbal attack or
pressure in an interview. Try to remain calm and maintain an
upright or slightly leaning forward posture.
Covering
Mouth with Hands
- Basically, this will be understood as either, you lack
confidence or, worse still, you are lying. This is the
subconscious trying to actually stop you lying. This is one of
the most obvious signals your body can give out. Be very
careful not to do this. Of course it could be that you are
self-conscious about your bad breath!
Rubbing
Nose
- Again, this indicates that you are lying. It also shows
uncertainty on your part.
Shrugging
Shoulders
- This is a fairly common one, and is normally associated with
either a lack of understanding or total disinterest. Try not to
shrug, and if the interviewer does, explain yourself again in
terms he will understand.
Scratching
Neck
- another way of showing uncertainty.
Pulling at
Collar
- This generally indicates that you are uneasy with a
situation. It could also convey nervousness to the interviewer,
try to avoid pulling at your collar or rubbing the neck area.
Touching
and/or Stroking your Hair
- Interesting one this. It is generally thought that this
indicates you are attracted to the person you are talking to.
Could help you get the job this one!
Next Page -
Body Language
- The Interviewer
