Job interviews: Does body language give you away?

Yes

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by T. K. Pippin

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Is your body language keeping you from getting your ideal job? As a former office manager I've interviewed many different types of people and it wasn't always the resume or the gift of gab that got the applicant their job placement. In fact, those two aspects came behind one very important feature. BODY LANGUAGE! That's right, body language says a lot about a person, their intent, and what they have to offer a company. We rely on it when making relationship choices, so it should seem only natural that one might consider it when making tough decisions on who's best for that open position in the company, especially if there are two or more applicants that rate about the same on education and experience.

Body language can relay messages that speach cannot. If an applicant walks into an interview and spastically waves hello, the interviewer may get the impression that the applicant is flighty, stupid or just not professional. It is always good, and I'd go as far as necessary to greet your inteviewer with a smile and a firm handshake as a sign of friendliness and professionalism. On top of thanking them for the opportunity to be interviewed, this will let them know that you are worth the time they are putting into the interview and that you are grateful for that time.

Contrary to being flighty, some people have an attitude of "I don't want to be here" when they walk into the room. They don't make eye contact and if they do it's with eyebrows lifted as if asking "are you kidding me?" or they cut their eyes when answering a question they'd rather not answer. This tells the interviewer that you don't really want the job and you feel it's a waste of time and that you may not be completely up front about your expectations and job skills. Well, guess what? It's a waste of their time too, so don't expect a call back if you come in with a chip on the shoulder because nobody wants a trouble-maker.

It's also imperative that hyper-active persons should try to tone down their natural highs when entering a prospective job site, so as to not scare, surprise or offend anyone. Hyperactivity can also add to anxiety and cause you to trip or fumble over your words. You don't want the interviewer to feel you might be a liability. On the opposite side of the spectrum, those with low-energy should add bounce to their step and put a smile on their face, and when seated, don't slouch, to assure that would-be boss that you can be efficient and get the job done and that your not a slob. The person doing the interviewing will most likely be over you and will be looking for someone they can rely on. Also, either of the above mentioned might give off the impression that you're on drugs and most work sites don't put up with eradict or depressive behavior.

Waist down may not seem like an issue, but don't be fooled. Body language includes the entire body so take this advice. Don't cross your legs or spread them unless you're behind a table or desk where they can't be seen, the proper seating style for anyone being interviewed is legs side by side, feet on the floor. This shows discipline and proper manners. Whereas the former might give off the impression that you're too relaxed or sleezy. While keeping legs together try to control the restless leg syndrome, which can indicate anxiousness and nervousness. This may also give the impression that you're ready to get out of there, and you may be, but you don't want the interviewer to know it.

Give the impression that you want the job and want to know more about the company by getting to know more about the person who is interviewing you. Keep your hand and arm movements at a minimum and when using gestures keep them at a medium speed, not to slow or fast, keep your eyes on the person who is speaking to you and only scan your surroundings at opportune moments such as when the interviewer is looking down at their papers or writing. Most likely they'll want to know some personal information about you, so don't be afraid to open up a bit. Opening your hands while you talk is a sign of invitation instead of crossing your arms which can give a closed off feeling and may give the impression you're not easy to work with. Please do not point your fingers at the interviewer at any time. They are in charge, not you!

Body language doesn't have to be the barrier between you and a good job. Just remember there is a happy medium. Use expression but don't go overboard. Maintain professionalism by keeping bodily contact to a minimum. A handshake is fine. Don't slouch, keep a relaxed smile, use eye contact in conversation, and as Travolta might say, "Be cool!" These things can help keep your body language balanced and show potential employees you mean business.

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