About Body Language
In this section I’ll talk all about body langauge and some of the key “do’s” and “don’ts” (yes I know it should be don’t's, but it just looks awful) 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.
What Is Body Language?
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.
Language of the Body
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…in certain circumstances.
Anyway, that’s a very brief “about body language” lesson. It is a hugely interesting subject, which there are many, many great books on if you wnat to study body language in more depth.