Body Language and the Interview

One of the key elements of interviewing is body language. It can tell an employer a lot about you and affect your chances of being hired. Distracting or intimidating body language can be fatal to the job search.
There are four main movements to avoid:

1. fidgeting, of any type



2. crossing your arms



3. avoiding eye contact



4. and hiding your hands

Fidgeting, while not uncommon and often a result of nervous energy, is distracting to employers. It can also lead them to wonder why you are so nervous.

Crossed arms is a common stance for most people, but it codes as aggressive and intimidating during an interview. Keep your arms open, resting them on the arms of the chair.

Eye contact is key in interviews. If you do not look at your interviewer(s), they might think you are hiding something. However, do not stare at your interviewer(s), this is intimidating and nerve-wracking. Keeping eye contact with the person who is speaking and looking away on occasion is best.

Finally, interviewers will probably look at your hands occasionally. Hiding your hands by sitting on them or folding them in your lap under the table may make them question your interpersonal skills. Hand gestures and placement can tell an employer how well you would interact with clients.

For examples and pictures of body language gaffes in interview situations, click on the attached link: http://www.forbes.com/pictures/efkk45ehkf/interview-body-language-gaffes-that-could-cost-you-the-job.

If you have any questions about interviewing or would like to schedule a mock interview, contact Betty Butterbaugh in Career Services at bjbutterbaugh@manchester.edu!