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Nonverbal Communication Tips for Job Interviews

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Create your resume now Job interviews are the employers chance to meet candidates face-to-face. Not only will the employer have a list of specific questions to ask you about your resume and your ability to do the job, they also want to see what you're like.

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Make sure that my tone is expressive and emphasize certain words so I do not seem monotone and uninterested.

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After you've landed a job interview, chances are you spend a lot of time preparing for the questions that may be asked and the answers you'll give. But remember nonverbal communication is just as important as what you'll say.

Consider: Many studies show people form their first impressions on others based 55% on body language and only 7% based on actual verbal content.

During an interview, managers will be listening to what you're saying, but they'll also be reading your body language. Subtle nonverbal cues like hand gestures, eye contact, and facial expressions reveal a lot about how you're feeling.

The goal is to use positive body language and gestures to give the impression you're calm, relaxed, and confident. Projecting this strong image can go a long way in lending credibility to what you're saying during the interview.

Based on Empire Resume's study of nonverbal communication, here's what you need to know for an upcoming job interview:

Basics of Nonverbal Communication

When people talk about communication, we often think about the verbal kind - what's being said. But there's much more to interpersonal communication than the words we say, especially during a job interview.

Nonverbal communication includes signals like facial expressions, the tone and pitch of voice, body language gestures, and the physical distance between the people communicating.

This wide range of nonverbal signals provides additional information and context during conversations that adds meaning to what's being said.

Nonverbal cues can sometimes be even more important than what we say. These cues can reinforce, or contradict, what's said in words. For example, when someone shrugs their shoulders and says, "I'm fine," it probably signals they're not feeling fine at all.

The nonverbal types of communication are often the best indicator of someone's emotional state. We can usually tell how someone is feeling based on things like their facial expressions and tone of voice.

It's important to remember people generally have less control over nonverbal communication than the verbal kind. This is because nonverbal communication is largely driven by emotions and instincts.

Keep this last part in mind during your interview. How you're feeling will most likely determine the nonverbal cues you give to the manager. For example, if you're feeling nervous and not very confident, you'll be more likely to fidget and avoid eye contact.

Empire Resume reminds you that adequately preparing for the interview and using relaxation techniques can build confidence and a sense of ease which, in turn, will lead to positive nonverbal cues more naturally.

Nonverbal Do's and Don'ts

Your nonverbal cues will make a lasting impression during your interview. If you slouch and your appearance is messy, the chances are you probably won't get the job.

Make sure you're dressed professionally for your interview, you're neatly groomed, and don't overdo perfume or aftershave. Be friendly while waiting in the lobby and be patient and don't kill time by playing with your phone.

During the interview, make eye contact with the hiring manager for a few seconds at a time, which displays confidence. Smile and nod (at appropriate times) while the manager is talking, but don't overdo it.

Keep an even tone of voice while you're talking, and don't speak too loudly or quietly. Also, pay attention to your posture. Don't slouch - instead, relax and lean forward a little toward the manager, which shows him or her you're interested and engaged in the conversation.

As for posture, also don't lean back, as this will make you seem too relaxed and casual. Pay close attention while the manager is speaking and practice active listening skills. It's also smart to take occasional notes, which can help when you get a chance to ask questions at the end of the interview.

Stay calm while answering difficult questions. Try to keep your emotions in check and don't show anger or frown, even if asked about something particularly difficult, like a previous job where you had been laid off or fired.

Poise, Interest, and Expressiveness

So many of our nonverbal communication cues are unconscious, and we can be unaware of our tendencies. That's why Empire Resume always recommends doing mock or practice interviews so you can work on nonverbal (and verbal) communication.

A friend, family member, or career coach can analyze and correct less than positive nonverbal signals during mock interviews. You could even record the practice interviews and look over the video together.

Paying closer attention to nonverbal communication won't just help during the job interview. These subtle forms of communication are always important in life and the workplace. Learning how to appear more relaxed and confident will help during the interview and during daily interactions in the office once you land a job.

Empire Resume recommends focusing on three specific things to convey during the interview: poise, interest, and expressiveness.

You'll want to appear poised, as in confident and comfortable. People who display this quality can control nervous tics and behaviors and look like they're ready to take on the world. The more practice you get at job interviews, the more you'll be able to naturally look poised.

It's also important to verbally and nonverbally express your interest in the job. From a nonverbal standpoint, this means you should never look disinterested by yawning, slouching, or looking bored. Make an appropriate level of eye contact during the interview, lean forward to look engaged, and be attentive to what the manager is saying.

Finally, be expressive in a positive way with your nonverbal cues. This means demonstrating excited energy while speaking and answering questions, smiling, and generally appearing cheerful.

The Natural Solution for Good Nonverbal Cues

Nonverbal communication such as body language, posture, and facial expressions are important during your job interview. But remember there's no magic recipe for success in this area. The key is to act natural and appear confident, relaxed, and interested in the job, the company, and the interviewer.

Most of our nonverbal cues are triggered by our emotional states so, while it's possible to appear poised when you're super-nervous, you should also work on calming your nerves so you can naturally feel and appear relaxed.

Take the time to prepare for your interview by researching the company and the questions you may be asked. Also, practice good self-care by getting a good night's sleep and eating a healthy breakfast before you leave.

Bottom line: Know the basics of positive nonverbal communication for job interviews, but keep in mind that the more prepared you are and the more confident you are in yourself, the more likely you'll naturally exude confidence and express positive body language, facial expressions, etc.

Maria Gold is a Content Manager/Writer for Empire Resume. She is dedicated to helping educate and motivate people with the latest career articles and job search advice. Her interests range from writing to programming and design. She is also passionate about innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology.
Related Articles:

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Nonverbal Communication During an Interview | Empire Resume

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After you've landed a job interview, chances are you spend a lot of time preparing for the questions that may be asked and the answers you'll give. But remember nonverbal communication is just as important as what you'll say.

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Even after I have left the office of an interview, I should not let my expression change unpleasantly. I should not let my face contradict how I presented myself earlier.

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Imagine you're considering someone for a position. She says she is confident in her ability to do the job, but her shoulders are slumped and she can't seem to make eye contact. Do you believe her? Maybe you interview someone whose résumé and references back up his claims, but his visible lack of assurance doesn't instill confidence in you. Do you hire him?

Your body language communicates just as much as, if not more than, what you actually say. So take time to prepare not only what you will say in an interview but also how you will say it. Here are some answers to basic body language questions to help you get ready for your next big interview:

What Is the Ideal Posture?

As a general rule, the ideal posture is created when you pull your shoulders back and keep your back straight. Did you just try it? How do you feel? Now, put both feet on the ground. Experts say it actually helps you answer questions better. Leaning slightly forward during the course of the interview can show engagement, but make sure you aren't leaning forward so much that you make the interviewer uncomfortable.

How Much Eye Contact Should I Make?

Making eye contact during the interview is a good way to show that you are comfortable and honest, but remember to break eye contact from time to time. If there are multiple people in the interview, look at the interviewer who asked you the question about 80 percent of the time it takes you to answer and look at any other interviewers during the other 20 percent.

What Should I Do with My Hands?

Most people wonder what to do with their hands during an interview. If you're the type of person who likes to talk with your hands, that's fine, but you'll want to make sure that your movements are not excessive or distracting and that they don't come off as fidgety. Make sure that you do not play with your hair, glasses, or jewelry during the interview. Keep your gestures visible above the table if you're sitting but not in front of your face. Avoid pointing, which can be seen as aggressive, and crossing your arms or keeping your hands behind your back, which can make you seem closed off and unengaged. If you're unsure of what to do with your hands, it's best to keep them by your sides or gently crossed in your lap.

What about Other Key Moments?

Sometimes we focus so much on the actual interview that we forget how much of an impact other interactions can have on hiring decisions. Don't miss your opportunity to impress at these times too:

In the waiting room

Many hiring managers will ask the administrative staff their opinions of candidates, so you'll want to employ some of the tips mentioned earlier from the second you walk in the door. Be open and polite with the staff as you wait.

Greeting your interviewer

If possible, anticipate which direction the interviewer will be coming to meet you. Facing him or her as the interviewer comes to meet you usually creates the best first impression. Smile and make eye contact. When you shake his or her hand, make sure your grip is neither limp nor overly forceful. You want to be confident but not overpowering.

Leaving the interview

After the interview is over, make sure to leave on a positive note. Smile and meet the interviewer's gaze as you shake hands. The interview isn't over until you've left the premises, so don't let your facial expression or posture be affected by the way you think it went.

How Can I Know What to Work On?

So much of our body language is unconscious, which means you might not be aware of some of your own distracting tendencies. Before you go in for a job interview, it's a good idea to practice with a friend, family member, or mentor and record the mock interview. Review it for ideas of how you can make your physical cues more calm and confident. Mock interviews are also available at LDS employment resource centers during coaching sessions and as part of the Career Workshop.

Paying attention to body language isn't just another thing to remember during a job interview. It's a key part of communication every single day. Mastering professional body language will not only help you get the job you desire but will also help you in the weeks and months to come.

Related article: What Are You Really Saying? The Power of Nonverbal Communication

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Making an Impression: Nonverbal Communication during a Job Interview

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Imagine you're considering someone for a position. She says she is confident in her ability to do the job, but her shoulders are slumped and she can't seem to make eye contact. Do you believe her? Maybe you interview someone whose résumé and references back up his claims, but his visible lack of assurance doesn't instill confidence in you.

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Initiating eye contact and taking insinuating that I will begin talking.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Nonverbal Communication Tips for Job Interviews

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Create your resume now Job interviews are the employers chance to meet candidates face-to-face. Not only will the employer have a list of specific questions to ask you about your resume and your ability to do the job, they also want to see what you're like.

# data[].attributes.body
Smiling while meeting the interviewer, showing that I am excited for the interview.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
After you've landed a job interview, chances are you spend a lot of time preparing for the questions that may be asked and the answers you'll give. But remember nonverbal communication is just as important as what you'll say.

Consider: Many studies show people form their first impressions on others based 55% on body language and only 7% based on actual verbal content.

During an interview, managers will be listening to what you're saying, but they'll also be reading your body language. Subtle nonverbal cues like hand gestures, eye contact, and facial expressions reveal a lot about how you're feeling.

The goal is to use positive body language and gestures to give the impression you're calm, relaxed, and confident. Projecting this strong image can go a long way in lending credibility to what you're saying during the interview.

Based on Empire Resume's study of nonverbal communication, here's what you need to know for an upcoming job interview:

Basics of Nonverbal Communication

When people talk about communication, we often think about the verbal kind - what's being said. But there's much more to interpersonal communication than the words we say, especially during a job interview.

Nonverbal communication includes signals like facial expressions, the tone and pitch of voice, body language gestures, and the physical distance between the people communicating.

This wide range of nonverbal signals provides additional information and context during conversations that adds meaning to what's being said.

Nonverbal cues can sometimes be even more important than what we say. These cues can reinforce, or contradict, what's said in words. For example, when someone shrugs their shoulders and says, "I'm fine," it probably signals they're not feeling fine at all.

The nonverbal types of communication are often the best indicator of someone's emotional state. We can usually tell how someone is feeling based on things like their facial expressions and tone of voice.

It's important to remember people generally have less control over nonverbal communication than the verbal kind. This is because nonverbal communication is largely driven by emotions and instincts.

Keep this last part in mind during your interview. How you're feeling will most likely determine the nonverbal cues you give to the manager. For example, if you're feeling nervous and not very confident, you'll be more likely to fidget and avoid eye contact.

Empire Resume reminds you that adequately preparing for the interview and using relaxation techniques can build confidence and a sense of ease which, in turn, will lead to positive nonverbal cues more naturally.

Nonverbal Do's and Don'ts

Your nonverbal cues will make a lasting impression during your interview. If you slouch and your appearance is messy, the chances are you probably won't get the job.

Make sure you're dressed professionally for your interview, you're neatly groomed, and don't overdo perfume or aftershave. Be friendly while waiting in the lobby and be patient and don't kill time by playing with your phone.

During the interview, make eye contact with the hiring manager for a few seconds at a time, which displays confidence. Smile and nod (at appropriate times) while the manager is talking, but don't overdo it.

Keep an even tone of voice while you're talking, and don't speak too loudly or quietly. Also, pay attention to your posture. Don't slouch - instead, relax and lean forward a little toward the manager, which shows him or her you're interested and engaged in the conversation.

As for posture, also don't lean back, as this will make you seem too relaxed and casual. Pay close attention while the manager is speaking and practice active listening skills. It's also smart to take occasional notes, which can help when you get a chance to ask questions at the end of the interview.

Stay calm while answering difficult questions. Try to keep your emotions in check and don't show anger or frown, even if asked about something particularly difficult, like a previous job where you had been laid off or fired.

Poise, Interest, and Expressiveness

So many of our nonverbal communication cues are unconscious, and we can be unaware of our tendencies. That's why Empire Resume always recommends doing mock or practice interviews so you can work on nonverbal (and verbal) communication.

A friend, family member, or career coach can analyze and correct less than positive nonverbal signals during mock interviews. You could even record the practice interviews and look over the video together.

Paying closer attention to nonverbal communication won't just help during the job interview. These subtle forms of communication are always important in life and the workplace. Learning how to appear more relaxed and confident will help during the interview and during daily interactions in the office once you land a job.

Empire Resume recommends focusing on three specific things to convey during the interview: poise, interest, and expressiveness.

You'll want to appear poised, as in confident and comfortable. People who display this quality can control nervous tics and behaviors and look like they're ready to take on the world. The more practice you get at job interviews, the more you'll be able to naturally look poised.

It's also important to verbally and nonverbally express your interest in the job. From a nonverbal standpoint, this means you should never look disinterested by yawning, slouching, or looking bored. Make an appropriate level of eye contact during the interview, lean forward to look engaged, and be attentive to what the manager is saying.

Finally, be expressive in a positive way with your nonverbal cues. This means demonstrating excited energy while speaking and answering questions, smiling, and generally appearing cheerful.

The Natural Solution for Good Nonverbal Cues

Nonverbal communication such as body language, posture, and facial expressions are important during your job interview. But remember there's no magic recipe for success in this area. The key is to act natural and appear confident, relaxed, and interested in the job, the company, and the interviewer.

Most of our nonverbal cues are triggered by our emotional states so, while it's possible to appear poised when you're super-nervous, you should also work on calming your nerves so you can naturally feel and appear relaxed.

Take the time to prepare for your interview by researching the company and the questions you may be asked. Also, practice good self-care by getting a good night's sleep and eating a healthy breakfast before you leave.

Bottom line: Know the basics of positive nonverbal communication for job interviews, but keep in mind that the more prepared you are and the more confident you are in yourself, the more likely you'll naturally exude confidence and express positive body language, facial expressions, etc.

Maria Gold is a Content Manager/Writer for Empire Resume. She is dedicated to helping educate and motivate people with the latest career articles and job search advice. Her interests range from writing to programming and design. She is also passionate about innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology.
Related Articles:

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Nonverbal Communication During an Interview | Empire Resume

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
After you've landed a job interview, chances are you spend a lot of time preparing for the questions that may be asked and the answers you'll give. But remember nonverbal communication is just as important as what you'll say.

# data[].attributes.body
While the interviewer is talking to me, nodding my head will indicate that I am understanding them, without interrupting verbally.

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While at a job interview, you might think that if you have the best answers to the interview questions, you'll get the job, but that isn't necessarily the case. A big part of the success of your answers is actually nonverbal communication.

This includes your body language and what is known as "paralanguage" - the elements of your speech besides the words, such as your intonation, speaking speed, pauses and sighs, and facial expressions. Nonverbal communication also includes your attire and grooming.

Nonverbal communication is as important, or even more important than, verbal communication. The interviewer will be observing your nonverbal communication throughout the entire interview. If your nonverbal communication skills aren't up to par, it won't matter how well you answer the questions.

Nonverbal Communication Matters

Nonverbal communication matters as soon as you walk in the office door. If you come to an interview reeking of cigarette smoke or chewing gum, you will already have one strike against you. Too much perfume or not enough deodorant won't help either.

Not being dressed appropriately or having scuffed shoes will give you a second strike. Talking on your cell phone or listening to music while waiting to be called for the interview may be your final strike.

What's important when interviewing is to appear professional, attentive, and confident throughout the interview process.

How to Prepare

Remember that the image the interviewer has of you when they first meet you is the one that is going to last. If you're slouchy, sloppy, or messy, it won't matter how well you answer the interview questions. You are not going to get the job.

When practicing for an interview, work on your nonverbal communications as well as your other interviewing skills. It could be what clinches the job offer for you. You can practice with a friend or interview coach who conducts a mock interview and gives you feedback. You can also film yourself and review your nonverbal communication.

Before you leave for the interview, make sure you are dressed professionally, are neatly groomed, your shoes are polished, and you haven't overdone the perfume or aftershave (none is better than too much).

What to Bring to an Interview

There are things that you should bring with you to the interview and the things that you need to leave at home. Following the advice in these lists will help improve your nonverbal communication:

Portfolio or pad holder with a copy of your resume and a list of references on quality paper

Work samples (if relevant)

Notepad and pen

Breath mint (before you enter the building)

Women: extra pair of pantyhose (keep in your briefcase or car)

What Not to Bring to an Interview

Cell phone

Gum

Cigarettes

Candy

Soda or coffee

Scuffed shoes and messy or not-so-clean clothes

While You Wait

The way you sit in the lobby, the way you greet the receptionist and the interviewer, and the way you wait, will all have an impact on whether you are going to be considered for the job. Be friendly and pleasant, but not overbearing. If you need to wait, sit quietly (no phone calls) and patiently.

Shake hands with the interviewer. Your handshake should be firm - not sticky or wimpy. To avoid sweaty palms, visit the restroom, wash your hands, then run them under cool water prior to the interview. Keep your palms open rather than clenched in a fist and keep a tissue you in your pocket to (discreetly) wipe them.

Nonverbal Communication During the Interview

Make eye contact with the interviewer for a few seconds at a time.

Smile and nod (at appropriate times) when the interviewer is talking, but don't overdo it. Don't laugh unless the interviewer does first.

Be polite and keep an even tone to your speech. Don't be too loud or too quiet.

Don't slouch.

Do relax and lean forward a little towards the interviewer so you appear interested and engaged.

Don't lean back. You will look too casual and relaxed.

Keep your feet on the floor and your back against the lower back of the chair.

Pay close attention to the interviewer. Take notes if you are worried you will not remember something.

Listen.

Don't interrupt.

Stay calm. Even if you had a bad experience at a previous position or were fired, keep your emotions to yourself and do not show anger or frown.

Not sure what to do with your hands? Hold a pen and your notepad or rest an arm on the chair or on your lap, so you look comfortable. Don't let your arms fly around the room when you're making a point.

Nonverbal Communication at the End of the Interview

Before leaving the interview, be sure to give the interviewer another firm handshake and smile. On your way out, say goodbye to the receptionist or anyone else you spoke to during the interview.

Your verbal communication is important too. Don't use slang. Speak clearly and definitely. Remember your manners and thank the interviewer for taking the time to meet with you.

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Tips to Learn How to Use Nonverbal Communication at a Job Interview

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While at a job interview, you might think that if you have the best answers to the interview questions, you'll get the job, but that isn't necessarily the case. A big part of the success of your answers is actually nonverbal communication.

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Using nonverbal message instead of verbal messages

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Restating the verbal message with a nonverbal message

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Nonverbal movements used to indicate one's desire to control the verbal messages

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Nonverbal actions that deliberately contradict the verbal actions

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Nonverbal communication used to compliment or add nuance/meaning to the verbal message

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Nonverbal communication used to emphasize a part of the verbal message