Your body language plays a crucial role in how you are perceived by the interviewer. Before an interview, most candidates decide on their wardrobe, research the company and prepare answers to potential questions; they may even practice or arrive early to know the lay of the land. However, a lot gets communicated to the hiring manager without saying anything at all. Nonverbal mistakes are one thing frequently left on the back burner.
Nonverbal cues can often speak louder than words and can leave a lasting impression on the interviewer. It doesn’t take long for an interviewer to decide if you’re the right fit for the job, and your body language is a large indicator of your comfort level and confidence. Shifty eyes and fidgety hands come off as a red flag for employers.
A body language miscue can cost you the job. Here are ten common mistakes ranked on how likely they are to cost you the job.
RANKED: Try to avoid, but it probably won’t cost you the job…
10. Excessive hand gestures
While hand gestures can be effective in emphasizing points, overusing them can be distracting It’s great that you’re expressive with your hands. While using your hands is a good idea, you don’t want to cause a distraction with excessive hand motions. Using them minimally can help you get engaged in the conversation without appearing theatrical.
9. Weak handshake
We’ve all heard this one. A weak handshake can make you appear unconfident and can also be perceived as disrespectful or insincere. Make sure to give a firm handshake while maintaining eye contact. Your handshake should be neither too limp nor too aggressive.
Although this has been recommended in the business world for some time now, we now have science to back it up. Interviewers WILL make assumptions about your leadership style based on your handshake.
8. Excessive nodding
We want to appear enthusiastic and agreeable in interviews, but nodding all the time is not an effective method to convey this. Instead, you’ll appear overly eager to please. There is no need to nod if you are truly listening and being a “yes-man” isn’t always desirable to managers.
RANKED: Sends a message to the hiring manager that this job might not be the right fit…
7. Fidgeting
Fidgeting is a common nervous habit that many people have during interviews. However, it can make you appear distracted and unprofessional. Try to sit still and maintain a good posture throughout the interview. Avoid tapping your feet, clicking your pen, or playing with your hair. If you are prone to fidgeting, try to channel your nervous energy into your breathing or by clenching and releasing your muscles.
6. Inappropriate dress
Wearing uncomfortable or ill-fitting clothing can make you appear uncomfortable or fidgety. Make sure to dress appropriately for the job interview and choose clothing that makes you feel confident and comfortable.
5. Bad posture
Slumping in your seat is a mistake. Whether we realize it or not, our body language often mirrors what’s going on internally. Even if you’re not feeling the most confident, squaring your shoulders can help you feel more confident and perform better. You’ll also appear more polished, showing respect to the interviewer and the professional environment you’re in. It’s important to sit up straight with your shoulders back to convey confidence and engagement.
RANKED: It will be difficult to bounce back from this one…
4. No facial expressions
Whether we want to acknowledge it or not, your interview is also a check-in to see if you’re a good culture fit. The rapport you build with the hiring manager is pivotal. Lack of facial expressions – A lack of facial expressions can make you appear uninterested or unenthusiastic. It’s important to smile when appropriate and show interest in what the interviewer is saying.
3. Avoiding eye contact
Nonverbal mistakes that involve eye contact are universally looked down upon. No, your interview isn’t a staring contest. It isn’t a competition to see who will break eye contact first. However, looking down or looking away while you’re listening shows a huge lack of interest. Avoiding eye contact can make you appear uninterested or dishonest. Always make eye contact when the hiring manager is speaking.
2. Defensive Posture
Defensive or aggressive body posture, such as crossing your legs and arms tightly or leaning forward aggressively, can make you appear confrontational or unapproachable. Keep your body language open and relaxed to convey a positive and professional demeanor. While you don’t want to appear passive, you also don’t want to get into the interviewer’s personal bubble.
1. Checking Your Phone
Checking your phone during an interview is considered a major body language mistake because it can make you appear disinterested. It’s the same thing as checking your phone during a date; it’s just flat-out rude.
It sends the message that you have more important things to do than focus on the interview. Turn off your phone or put it on silent before the interview to avoid the temptation to check it. If you are expecting an important call or message, let the interviewer know beforehand and ask for permission to check your phone if necessary.
In conclusion, being aware of your body language during a job interview is crucial to making a positive impression on the interviewer. By avoiding common nonverbal mistakes such as fidgeting, lack of eye contact, crossed arms, slouching, weak handshake, overusing hand gestures, lack of facial expressions, and inappropriate dress, you can convey confidence and professionalism. Remember to also avoid checking your phone during the interview. Practice beforehand and dress appropriately to ensure you feel confident and comfortable. Good luck with your next interview!
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