There are many important factors that go into having a successful job interview. Conducting in-depth research on the company and position you are applying for, preparing yourself with educated questions at the end of the interview and formulating answers for those tough questions you know you will be asked, are all common forms of interview preparation. However, there is an additional factor that is just as important and tends to be forgotten when getting ready for a face-to-face meeting with a future employer. Your use of body language can make or break the interview outcome, regardless of every other factor throughout the process. Below are some helpful tips that will help you leave a memorable impression.
Shake it Off
First, consider the handshake. You may have heard this many times, but you can truly make or break your first impression when introducing yourself. Try not too be aggressive, and don’t let your handshake be too weak—it is that simple. It never hurts to practice with a friend beforehand.
Keep Your Eyes on the Prize
Try your best to make eye contact throughout the entire interview. There is nothing more off-putting to an employer than having a candidate who does appear to be engaged. Try to sense the comfort level of the person conducting the interview, soften your gaze and give them slightly more than equal eye contact.
Say Cheese
Make it known that you are excited to be there and pleased to be given the opportunity to interview in the first place. Employers want someone who is eager to join their team, and positive facial expressions will have a tremendous effect on the impression you leave.
Posture is Pertinent
Slouching in an interview comes off as lazy and unprofessional. One way to ensure great posture is to press your back up against the chair, which will force you to sit up straight if the chair has a back. If your chair does not have a back, make it a point to hold your shoulders back slightly. You may feel silly, but you will look attentive and qualified to your interviewer.
All Hands on Deck
Don’t be afraid to use hand gestures, but be sure to keep them subtle. Overdoing it can make you appear nervous. If you use your hands right, you will appear cool, calm and collected. Also, show your palms! This signals to the interviewer that you are honest and attentive, both of which are important qualities employers are looking for in a potential hire.
We guarantee these simple guidelines will make a huge different in your face-to-face interview. It is amazing how simple body language can show engagement, excitement, professionalism and honesty, which will all help you stand out and land the second interview or the job.
Staffing agency Kavaliro has offices in Tampa, Fla., Charlotte, N.C., Orlando, Fla., Washington, D.C., Jacksonville, Fla. and Petaluma, Ca. and can make sure you find the right people for any important role. We are ready and waiting to help you anytime and look forward to hearing from you. Be sure to check us out on Facebook and LinkedIn for more professional tips and tricks as well as information about our staffing services.